10 Nov 2010
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (November 10) 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 Wong Tai Sin involving 21 children aged between three and five.
The investigation revealed that the affected children, comprising six boys and 15 girls, have developed URI symptoms including fever, runny nose, cough and sore throat since October 24. Nasopharyngeal aspirate specimen taken from two students tested positive for adenovirus.
Six of the affected were admitted to hospital. All of the affected are now in stable condition.
Staff of the CHP conducted a site visit and provided health advice.
To prevent URI 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, wash hands after sneezing or 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 doctor for medical advice promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.
For more information on the disease, visit the CHP's website at www.chp.gov.hk .