*******************************************************
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (March 8) investigating an influenza-like illness outbreak at a kindergarten in Sha Tin affecting 20 pupils and hence reminded members of the public and staff of institutions to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene against influenza.
The affected pupils, 15 boys and five girls, aged between 3 and 5, had developed symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection, including fever, coughing, runny nose and sore throat, since February 19.
None of them required hospitalisation and all of them are currently in stable condition.
Officers of the CHP have visited the school and advised the management to adopt measures against respiratory tract infection.
To prevent respiratory tract infection, the CHP advised members of the public to take heed of the following advice:
* 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 before touching the eyes, nose and mouth, after using a toilet and after sneezing or coughing and cleaning the nose;
* Wear a mask when having symptoms of respiratory tract infection;
* Maintain good ventilation;
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation; and
* Receive seasonal influenza vaccination. For details, please visit the CHP's Influenza Page (www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/14843.html).
Ends/Friday, March 8, 2013
Issued at HKT 12:31
NNNN
