Press Release

CHP investigates influenza-like illness outbreak

17 Feb 2012

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has reminded members of the public and management of institutions to maintain good environmental and personal hygiene to prevent influenza.

The reminder followed the CHP's investigation into an influenza-like illness (ILI) outbreak at a kindergarten in Tai Po, affecting 21 students.

The affected children, comprising nine males and 12 females aged between three and four, developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough, sore throat and runny nose since January 31.

One of the affected was admitted to a hospital and has been discharged. All of them are in stable condition.

The hospitalised student’s nasopharyngeal aspirate tested positive for influenza B.

CHP staff have visited the school and provided health advice to the management.

To prevent respiratory tract infection, members of 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, wash hands after sneezing or coughing and cleaning the nose, and wear a mask when having symptoms of respiratory tract infection;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation.