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Press Release

CHP investigates influenza-like illness outbreak at primary school in Tai Po

21 March 2016

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (March 21) investigating an outbreak of influenza-like illness at a primary school in Tai Po affecting 27 students, and again reminded the public to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene against influenza.

The affected students, comprising 10 boys and 17 girls aged 6 to 8, have developed fever, cough and sore throat since March 4. Twenty-five of them sought medical attention while two of them were treated and discharged from hospital. They are all in a stable condition.

Officers of the CHP conducted a site visit and advised the school to adopt the necessary infection control measures against respiratory infections. The school has been put under medical surveillance.

The public should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene for protection against influenza and other respiratory illnesses:

  • Receive seasonal influenza vaccination for personal protection;
  • Wash hands with liquid soap and water properly whenever possibly contaminated;
  • When hands are not visibly soiled, clean them with 70 to 80 per cent alcohol-based handrub;
  • Cover the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and wash hands thoroughly afterwards;
  • Dispose of soiled tissue paper properly in a lidded rubbish bin;
  • Put on a surgical mask when respiratory symptoms develop;
  • Maintain good indoor ventilation;
  • When influenza is prevalent, avoid going to crowded or poorly ventilated public places; high-risk individuals may consider putting on surgical masks in such places; and
  • Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, take adequate rest, do not smoke and avoid overstress.

The public may visit the CHP's pages below for more information:

21 Mar 2016