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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) received two reports of outbreaks of influenza-like illness today (April 9) involving a primary school and an elderly home, affecting a total of eight people (see Annex).
A CHP spokesman said that influenza-like illness may be caused by influenza or other respiratory viruses. CHP's officials have visited the institutions and provided health advice to the staff accordingly.
A report involving a three-year-old girl was received today under the influenza surveillance arrangement set up by CHP with private and public hospitals. The girl is now in stable condition in Tuen Mun hospital and the laboratory test result for influenza is pending.
The spokesman urged members of the public to stay alert by taking precautionary measures against influenza.
They should 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/Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:33
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