28 Feb 2011
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 28) 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 cum child care centre in Kwun Tong involving 40 students aged between three and six.
Investigation revealed that the affected students, comprising 22 boys and 18 girls, developed URI symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose or sore throat since February 15.
Nasopharyngeal aspirate specimen of one of them, a five-year-old girl, who had once admitted to United Christian Hospital and been discharged already, tested positive for respiratory syncytial virus. The rest are in stable condition with mild symptoms.
Staff of the CHP had conducted site visits and provided health advice to the kindergarten cum child care centre.
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 tract 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 ).