CHP investigates influenza A outbreak in elderly home in Tsuen Wan
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The outbreak involves 26 residents, 13 men and 13 women aged 61 to 101, who have developed fever, cough or sore throat since June 26. All sought medical attention and required hospitalisation for management. One with underlying illnesses died while the remaining patients were in stable condition.
The respiratory specimens of 17 residents tested positive for influenza A virus upon laboratory testing.
Officers of the CHP have conducted a site visit and advised the elderly home to adopt necessary infection control measures against respiratory infections. It has been put under medical surveillance.
Residential care homes for the elderly are reminded to follow the Guidelines on Prevention of Communicable Diseases on preventive and control measures as well as management of outbreaks, which should be reported to the CHP for prompt follow-up.
The public should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene for protection against influenza and other respiratory illnesses:
- Receive seasonal influenza vaccination for personal protection;
- Wash hands with liquid soap and water properly whenever possibly contaminated;
- When hands are not visibly soiled, clean them with 70 to 80 per cent alcohol-based handrub;
- Cover the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and wash hands thoroughly afterwards;
- Dispose of soiled tissue paper properly in a lidded rubbish bin;
- Put on a surgical mask when respiratory symptoms develop;
- Maintain good indoor ventilation;
- When influenza is prevalent, avoid going to crowded or poorly ventilated public places; high-risk individuals may consider putting on surgical masks in such places; and
- Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, take adequate rest, do not smoke and avoid overstress.
The public may visit the CHP's pages for more information: the influenza page, the weekly Flu Express report and the vaccination schemes page.
Ends/Monday, July 10, 2017
Issued at HKT 19:20
Issued at HKT 19:20
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