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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (November 9) investigating an outbreak of upper respiratory tract infection (URI) at a kindergarten cum child care centre in Tsing Yi, and appealed to members of the public to stay alert and maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene.
The 20 affected children, 12 boys and eight girls aged from 2 to 3 years, have developed URI symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat since October 28. All of them sought medical attention, and three were admitted to hospitals and have been discharged. All children are now in stable condition.
The respiratory specimens of three admitted children tested positive for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Officers of the CHP conducted a site visit to the centre and provided health advice against URI. The school has been placed under medical surveillance.
A spokesman for the CHP said that RSV is spread by direct contact with infectious secretions and could be easily transmitted among individuals in institutional settings.
"The incubation period can be one to 10 days but is usually five to seven days. Common symptoms include fever, chills, runny nose, cough, headache and decreased appetite," the spokesman said.
To prevent URI and influenza, the public should 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 and environmental hygiene and wash hands after sneezing, coughing and cleaning the nose. Wear a mask if symptoms of respiratory infections develop;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation, especially during peak influenza seasons.
Members of the public, particularly children, the elderly and those with chronic diseases, should wear a face mask and consult a doctor promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.
The public can visit the CHP website (www.chp.gov.hk) for more information on URI.
Ends/Monday, November 9, 2015
Issued at HKT 17:23
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