Press Release

Upper respiratory tract infection outbreak under CHP investigation

29 April 2013

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (April 29) appealed to members of 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 child care centre in Yau Tsim Mong District involving 20 babies aged between 0 and 2.

Investigations revealed that the affected babies, comprising 11 males and 9 females, had developed symptoms of URI including cough, runny nose, sore throat and fever since April 15.

All of them sought medical consultation and none required hospitalisation. All the affected babies are currently in a stable condition.

Officers of the CHP conducted a site visit and provided preventive advice to the institution against URI. The institution was placed under medical surveillance.

To prevent URI and influenza, the public should take heed of the following advice:

• Build up good body immunity by having a proper 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 the nose. Wear a mask if symptoms of respiratory infections develop;
• Maintain good ventilation; and
• Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation, especially during peak influenza seasons.

Members of the public, particularly children, the elderly and those with chronic diseases, should wear a face mask and consult their doctor promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.

The public may visit the CHP's website (This link will open in a new windowwww.chp.gov.hk) for more information on URI.