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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (April 11) called on members of the public and management of institutions to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent upper respiratory tract infection.
The appeal was made following CHP's investigation into an outbreak of upper respiratory tract infection affecting 18 children and two staff members in a children residential institution in Mong Kok.
The affected, comprising six males and 14 females aged from one to 29, developed symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat between April 4 and 11.
Of them, five consulted general practitioners or out-patient clinics. Five others were admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital and are now in stable condition.
Laboratory results revealed that nasal pharyngeal aspiirates of three patients yielded positive result to Respiratory Syncytial Virus.
Staff of the CHP has conducted field visit to the institution and provided health instructions to the staff. CHP will continue to closely monitor the institution.
To prevent upper respiratory tract infection and influenza, the public are advised to adopt the following measures:
* To build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
* To maintain good personal hygiene, and wash hands after sneezing, coughing and wear a mask when developing symptoms of respiratory infections;
* To maintain good ventilation; and
* To avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation, especially during peak influenza season.
Members of the public, particularly children, elderly people and those with chronic diseases, should wear face masks and consult their doctors for medical advice promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.
For more information on the disease, members of the public may visit the CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Friday, April 11, 2008
Issued at HKT 20:01
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