Press Release
Precautionary measures against cold weather
January 26, 2003
The Department of Health (DH) today (January 26) reminded the public to be on guard against influenza and to take precautionary measures against the expected cold weather in the next few days.
"Hong Kong has entered the usual peak season for influenza between January and March. This, together with the approach of the cold weather, makes it important for members of the public to take necessary steps to strengthen one's body resistance," DH's Assistant Director (Personal Health Services), Dr Regina Ching said.
To prevent influenza, members of the public are advised:
To build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
To maintain good personal hygiene, and wash hands after sneezing, coughing or cleaning the nose;
To maintain good ventilation;
To avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation;
Individuals particularly the young, elderly and those with chronic diseases, should consult their doctor medical advice promptly if they develop influenza-like symptoms.
In addition, Dr Ching reminded the public that cold weather can trigger off diseases especially among the elderly people, those with heart, respiratory or chronic diseases.
"The elderly have less insulating fat beneath their skin to help keep them warm and their temperature control mechanism may be weaker."
"Chronic health problems like hypertension, diabetes mellitus and endocrine problems may lead to a lower metabolic rate and less body heat generated. Other health problems like stroke, fractures, Parkinson's Disease and dementia may restrict the mobility of the elderly, therefore slowing down body heat generation and conservation."
Upon impending cold weather, Dr Ching urged the public to take the following measures:
To take note of the weather forecast. To wear appropriate warm clothing including scarfs, socks, gloves and hats;
To take sufficient food and drinks with high calorie content, e.g. hot soup, hot rice and noodles. Alcohol should be avoided;
To perform regular exercises to facilitate circulation and production of heat;
To stay in warm environment and avoid exposure in open space. Heaters must be used with care to ensure safety, and adequate indoor ventilation must be maintained; and
To seek medical attention, if unwell.
For babies, it is important to keep them lightly clothed in order not to restrict their bodily movements. Parents should take the following measures when they put their babies to bed:
Babies should normally lie on their backs and pillows should not be used;
Their feet should rest at the foot of the cot, and their arms should stay outside light bedding which is tucked securely in at the bottom of the cot to reduce the risk of bedding slipping over their heads.
Members of the public who wish to get more information on the precautionary measures against cold weather can call DH's Central Health Education Unit Hotline at 2833 0111. Information can also be obtained from DH's health educational homepage at This link will open in a new windowhttp://www.cheu.gov.hk and click "What's New" to obtain a relevant fact sheet.
For the latest weather information and 5-day Weather Forecast, please call the Hong Kong Observatory's Dial-a-weather [Cantonese (187-8200), Putonghua (187-8202) and English (187-8066)] and the Telephone Information Enquiry System (2926-1133) or visit the Observatory Internet homepage: This link will open in a new windowhttp://www.hko.gov.hk.