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A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said a new report involving a two-year-old boy was received today (January 25) through the paediatric surveillance programme set up by the CHP with private and public hospitals.
Initial enquiries revealed that the boy presented with fever on January 17 and sought medical consultation from a private doctor. The condition of the boy became worse yesterday and was taken to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital by ambulance. He died on the same day.
Further tests will be done to ascertain the cause of his death. The findings will be reported to the coroner.
The boy had no travel history and did not have history of contact with poultry His family members did not have any similar symptoms.
The spokesman reminded members of the public to stay alert by taking precautionary hygiene measures against infectious diseases.
They are advised to maintain good personal and 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 are available on the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Sunday, January 25, 2009
Issued at HKT 16:28
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