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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 12) urged members of the public and management of institutions to take preventive measures against respiratory tract infection by observing strict environmental and personal hygiene.
The appeal was made during CHP's investigation of an outbreak of upper respiratory tract infection in a hostel in Central and Western District.
As of today, 22 people are affected. Eighteen residents and four staff members, comprising nine men and 13 women aged from 21 to 60, developed symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat between December 24 and January 11.
Twenty of them had consulted doctors and none required hospitalisation. All of the affected are in stable condition.
CHP officials have visited the institution and provided health advice to the staff.
To prevent respiratory tract infection, people are advised to adopt the following measures:
* Build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
* Maintain good personal hygiene, wash hands after sneezing or coughing, and wear a mask when having symptoms of respiratory tract infection;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation.
People, particularly children, elderly people and those with chronic diseases, should wear face masks and consult doctors promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.
Ends/Monday, January 12, 2009
Issued at HKT 18:04
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