Press Release

Case of severe paediatric influenza A infection under CHP investigation

23 February 2014

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (February 23) investigating a case of severe paediatric influenza A infection affecting a boy aged 5.

The patient, with good past health, developed fever and cough since February 20, followed by confusion since February 21. He was admitted to Yan Chai Hospital on February 22 and was subsequently transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit of Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH). His clinical diagnosis was encephalopathy and he is currently in stable condition.

His respiratory specimen tested positive for influenza A(H1) virus upon laboratory testing by PMH.

The patient has no recent travel history. His family contacts were asymptomatic.

To prevent respiratory tract infections, a spokesman for the CHP urged members of the public to take heed of the following advice:

• 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 cleaning the nose, and wear a mask when symptoms of respiratory tract infection develop;
• Maintain good ventilation;
• Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation; and
• Receive seasonal influenza vaccination. For details, please visit the Influenza Page of the CHP's website( www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/14843.html ).