7 Dec 2009
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (December 7) urged members of the public and management of institutions to take preventive measures against respiratory tract infection by observing strict environmental and personal hygiene.
The appeal was made following CHP's investigation of an outbreak of upper respiratory tract infection affecting 21 children of a nursery school in Eastern District.
The affected, comprising 12 boys and nine girls aged from two to five, developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat since November 30.
CHP's investigation revealed that all of the affected children were stable and none of them required hospitalisation.
CHP officials have visited the school 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, and wash hands after sneezing or coughing, and wear a mask when developing symptoms of respiratory tract infections;
* 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 their doctors for medical advice promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.