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Press Release

Upper respiratory tract infection outbreak under CHP investigation

19 November 2014

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (November 19) appealed to members of 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 at a kindergarten in Wan Chai District involving 20 pupils aged between 3 and 6.

Investigation revealed that the affected pupils, comprising 12 boys and eight girls, had developed symptoms of URI including fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat since November 10.

One of the affected pupils required hospitalisation. All pupils are currently in a stable condition.

Officers of the CHP conducted a site visit and provided preventive advice against URI to the kindergarten, which was placed under medical surveillance.

To prevent URI and influenza, the public should 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 and environmental hygiene and wash hands after sneezing, coughing and cleaning the nose;
  • Maintain good ventilation; and
  • Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation, especially during peak influenza seasons.

Members of the public, particularly children, the elderly and those with chronic diseases, should wear a face mask and consult a doctor promptly if they develop symptoms of URI.

The public can visit the CHP website ( www.chp.gov.hk ) for more information on URI.

19 Nov 2014