Press Release

Case of severe paediatric influenza A under CHP investigation

25 April 2014

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (April 25) investigating a case of severe paediatric influenza A affecting a six-month-old boy.

The patient, with underlying illness, has developed cough, vomiting and shortness of breath since April 22. He was admitted to Tseung Kwan O Hospital on the same day and subsequently transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit of United Christian Hospital (UCH) on April 24 for further management.

His clinical diagnosis was pneumonia and he is now in a serious condition.

His tracheal aspirate tested positive for influenza A(H3) virus upon preliminary laboratory testing by UCH.

Initial enquiries by the CHP revealed that the patient had no recent travel history. His home contacts have remained asymptomatic so far.

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 ).