2 Nov 2010
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (November 2) 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 kindergarten in Kwun Tong involving 20 children aged between two and five.
Investigation revealed that the affected children, comprising nine boys and 11 girls, developed URI symptoms including fever, runny nose, cough and sore throat since October 24.
One of the affected was admitted to Baptist Hospital; she has already been discharged. Her nasopharyngeal aspirate specimen was tested positive for adenovirus. All the affected are in stable condition.
Staff of the CHP had conducted a site visit and provided health advice to the school.
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
).