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A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said a new report with laboratory evidence of influenza was received today (March 28) through the influenza surveillance arrangement set up by the CHP with private and public hospitals.
The case involved a three-year-old boy now under treatment in Prince of Wales Hospital. He is now in stable condition.
So far, 10 confirmed cases of influenza have been recorded out of a total of 25 reports received by CHP through the influenza surveillance arrangement to monitor the trend of influenza-related complications in children.
The latest breakdown figures are as follows:
A. Reports with positive test results for influenza
Total no. of reports 10
No. of patients discharged 8
B. Reports with preliminary negative test results for influenza
Total no. of reports 15
C. Reports pending laboratory test result for influenza
Total no. of reports 0
D. Total reports
Total no. of reports recorded since March 13 25
No. of patients discharged 19
No. of patients in hospital 6
There was no new influenza outbreak reported to the CHP today.
The spokesman reminded members of the public to stay alert by taking precautionary measures against influenza.
The telephone hotline (2125-1133) set up by CHP to answer public enquiries on seasonal influenza has so far received 245 calls. It will continue to operate between 9am and 6pm from Monday to Friday except public holidays.
Members of the public are advised to maintain good personal as well as environmental hygiene and build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise, and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking.
More details of preventive tips on influenza are available on CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Friday, March 28, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:46
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