Outbreak of respiratory tract infection under close watch

15 Mar 2010

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 15) 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 25 students of a secondary school in Eastern District.

The affected, comprising 11 boys and 14 girls aged from 12 to 18, developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat since February 28.

CHP's investigation revealed that one of them required hospitalisation and had been discharged. All of the affected are in stable condition.

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 promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.