17 Feb 2009
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 17) urged members of the public and management of institutions to take preventive measures against influenza following CHP's investigation into report of influenza-like-illness (ILI) outbreaks in two primary schools, affecting a total of 44 people.
The first case involved a primary school in Tsuen Wan. The affected, 14 males and eight females, developed symptoms of ILI, including fever, cough and sore throat from February 13 to 16. They comprised 20 students aged between seven and 12, and two staff members. All of them have sought medical treatment and did not require hospitalisation. They are in stable condition.
The second case involved a primary school in Sha Tin. Twenty-two students, comprising seven boys and 15 girls aged between six and 11 developed ILI symptoms from February 11 to 16. Among them, nineteen have sought medical attention. One other seven-year-old girl was admitted to Prince of Wales Hospital and her clinical specimens were tested positive for Influenza A. She has been discharged. All of them are in stable condition.
CHP officials have conducted field visit to these schools and provided health advice to the staff.
To prevent respiratory tract infection, the public are advised to adopt the following measures:
* Build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
* Maintain good personal hygiene, wash hands after sneezing or coughing, and wear a mask when having symptoms of respiratory tract infection;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation.
Members of the public, particularly children, elderly people and those with chronic diseases, should wear face masks and consult doctors promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.