20 Oct 2010
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (October 20) called on the public to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent upper respiratory tract infection (URI).
The appeal followed the CHP's investigation into a URI outbreak in a child care centre in Kwun Tong involving 20 students aged between two and five.
Investigation revealed that the affected persons, comprising 13 boys and seven girls, developed URI symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose or sore throat since October 8.
Nineteen of the affected sought medical attention. One of them, a two-year-old boy, had admitted to United Christian Hospital. All the affected are in stable condition.
Nasopharyngeal aspirate specimens of the hospitalised child was tested positive for respiratory syncytial virus.
Staff of the CHP had conducted a site visit and provided health advice to the child care centre.
To prevent upper respiratory tract infection and influenza, 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, coughing and wear a mask when developing symptoms of respiratory infections;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation, especially during peak influenza season.
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.
For more information on the disease, people may visit the CHP's website (
www.chp.gov.hk
).