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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has reminded members of the public and management of institutions to maintain good environmental and personal hygiene to prevent influenza.
The reminder followed the CHP's investigation into an influenza-like illness outbreak at a secondary school in Sheung Shui, affecting 20 students aged between 13 and 16.
The affected students, comprising 10 males and 10 females, developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough and sore throat, since April 16.
None required hospitalisation. All are in stable condition.
CHP staff have visited the school and provided health advice to the management.
To prevent respiratory tract infection, members of the public are advised to adopt the following measures:
* Build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
* Maintain good personal hygiene, wash hands after sneezing or coughing and cleaning the nose, and wear a mask when having symptoms of respiratory tract infection;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation.
Ends/Thursday, April 19, 2012
Issued at HKT 18:03
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