26 Aug 2009
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (August 26) urged members of the public and management of institutions to take preventive measures against influenza-like illness (ILI) by observing strict environmental and personal hygiene.
The appeal was made following the investigation into a report of an ILI outbreak in an elderly home in Tsuen Wan, affecting a total of 21 residents.
Investigation revealed that two men and 19 women, aged from 59 to 103, developed symptoms of ILI, including fever, cough and sore throat, since August 15.
Eleven of them sought medical treatment from private doctors or government out-patient clinics while 10 of them were admitted to hospital in stable condition.
Laboratory results showed that specimens taken from nine patients were tested positive for Influenza A, but negative for human swine influenza.
CHP visited the institution and provided health advice to the staff.
Tamiflu has been given to the staff and close contacts of the patients as antiviral chemoprophylaxis.
CHP will keep the staff and residents of the elderly home under medical surveillance.