28 Jan 2010
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 28) urged members of the public and management of institutions to take preventive measures against respiratory tract infection by strictly observing rules of environmental and personal hygiene.
The appeal was made following CHP's investigation of an outbreak of respiratory tract infection affecting 21 residents of a sheltered workshop cum hostel for the disabled in Kowloon City.
The affected, comprising 11 men and 10 women aged from 25 to 65, have developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat since January 19.
CHP's investigation revealed that all of the affected residents were stable and none of them required hospitalisation.
CHP officials have conducted a field visit to the institution 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 promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.