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A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said two new reports were received today (March 29) through the influenza surveillance arrangement set up by the CHP with private and public hospitals.
The cases involved a one-year-old girl and a two-year-old boy. Influenza test for the report of the girl was preliminary negative.
So far, 10 confirmed cases of influenza were recorded out of a total of 27 reports received by CHP through the influenza surveillance arrangement to monitor the trend of influenza-related complications in children.
The latest breakdown figures are as follows:
A. Reports with positive tests results for influenza
Total no. of reports 10
No of patients discharged 8
B. Reports with preliminary negative tests results for influenza
Total no. of reports 16
C. Reports pending laboratory test result for influenza
Total no. of reports 1
D. Total reports
Total no. of reports recorded since March 13 27
No of patients discharged 19
No of patients in hospital 8
The spokesman reminded members of the public to stay alert by taking precautionary measures against influenza.
The telephone hotline (2125-1133) set up by CHP to answer public enquiries on seasonal influenza has so far received 245 calls. It will continue to operate between 9am and 6pm from Monday to Friday except public holidays.
Members of the public 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 in CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Saturday, March 29, 2008
Issued at HKT 17:15
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