Update on cluster of Human Swine Influenza cases in a severe mentally handicapped ward in Siu Lam Hospital
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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     Regarding a severe mentally handicapped ward in which some patients had been confirmed with Human Swine Influenza, the spokesperson for Siu Lam Hospital announced the following update today (February 23):

     One more 49-year-old female patient in the ward had presented with fever symptom. Appropriate viral tests had been arranged for the patient and the test results were positive to Human Swine Influenza. The patient is being treated under isolation and is in stable condition.

     In addition, four female patients (aged 33 to 49) and a staff member in another severe mentally handicapped ward had presented with fever and respiratory symptoms since 17 February. Appropriate viral tests had been arranged for the patients and test results were positive to Human Swine Influenza. They have been transferred to Tuen Mun Hospital for treatment under isolation and are in stable condition. The concerned staff member has recovered and resumed duty.

     Admission to the concerned wards has been suspended and restricted visiting policy has been imposed.  Infection control measures have already been stepped up. All other patients in the wards concerned are under close surveillance.

     The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow up.

Ends/Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Issued at HKT 19:55

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