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A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said no new report was received today (March 26) through the influenza surveillance arrangement set up by the CHP with private and public hospitals.
There was also no new influenza outbreak reported to the CHP today.
The spokesman reminded people to stay alert by taking precautionary measures against influenza.
So far, seven confirmed cases of influenza have been recorded out of 24 reports received by CHP through the influenza surveillance arrangement to monitor the trend of influenza-related complications in children. One patient who was previously tested negative in preliminary influenza test was found positive upon viral isolation study. The patient has already been discharged.
The latest breakdown figures are as follows:
A. Reports with positive tests results for influenza
Total No of reports 7
No of patients discharged 7
B. Reports with preliminary negative tests results
for influenza
Total No of reports 17
C. Reports pending laboratory test result for
influenza
Total No of reports 0
D. Total reports
Total No of reports recorded since March 13 24
No of patients discharged 16
No of patients in hospital 8
The telephone hotline (2125-1133) set up by CHP to answer public enquiries on seasonal influenza has so far received 237 calls. It will continue to operate between 9am and 6pm from Monday to Friday except public holidays.
People are advised to maintain good personal as well as environmental hygiene and build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise, and adequate rests, reducing stress and avoiding smoking.
More details of preventive tips on influenza are available on CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:57
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