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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 27) 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, nine 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. Two patients who were previously tested negative in preliminary influenza test were found positive upon viral isolation study. Of them, a 10-year-old girl has been discharged while a 5-year-old boy is still in hospital in stable condition.
The latest breakdown figures are as follows:
A. Reports with positive tests results for influenza
Total No of reports 9
No of patients discharged 8
B. Reports with preliminary negative tests results for influenza
Total No of reports 15
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 18
No of patients in hospital 6
The telephone hotline (2125 1133) set up by CHP to answer public enquiries on seasonal influenza has so far received 243 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/Thursday, March 27, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:48
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