24 May 2010
The influenza response level under the Framework of Government's Preparedness Plan for Influenza Pandemic has been lowered from "Emergency" to "Alert" Response Level.
A spokesman for the Department of Health said that the Emergency Response Level Steering Committee decided in its May 11 meeting that the "Emergency" Response Level would be lowered to "Alert" level from May 24, 2010, barring any unforeseen factors arising from a meeting of the World Health Organisation (WHO) before that date.
"Given the absence of such unforeseen announcement at the WHO meeting, the stand down can now go ahead as scheduled," the spokesman said.
The spokesman said that government and public hospital activities will gradually revert to a scale appropriate for the Alert Response Level including reversion of Designated Flu Clinics to general outpatient clinics; normalisation of infection control practices and services in hospitals and clinics, including visiting hours of hospitals; updating of messages and information for the public and relevant stakeholders.
"However, our influenza surveillance and the HSI vaccination programme will continue."
The public are advised to stay vigilant and continue personal and environmental hygiene habits including washing hands frequently particularly after sneezing or coughing; maintaining good indoor ventilation; building up good body immunity by having a balanced diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, and avoiding smoking.