Press Release

Public urged to be vigilant against upper respiratory tract infection

16 Feb 2012

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 16) 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 at a residential care home for persons with disabilities in Kowloon City involving 20 residents aged from 27 to 62.

The investigation revealed that the affected persons, comprising 13 males and seven females, developed URI symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat since January 27. None required hospitalisation. All the affected are in stable condition.

Staff of the CHP conducted site visit and provided health advice to the institution. It was put under medical surveillance.

To prevent URI and influenza, the public are advised to adopt the following measures:

* Build up good body immunity by having a balanced 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 nose. Wear a mask when developing symptoms of respiratory 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 URI infection.

For more information on the disease, members of the public may visit the CHP's website (This link will open in a new windowwww.chp.gov.hk).