April 9, 1999
Influenza
Influenza is an acute illness characterised by fever, headache, muscle ache, running nose, cough and sore throat. The disease is usually self-limiting with recovery in 2-7 days. Three types of influenza virus are recognized : A, B and C, in which type A is more common. In Hong Kong, the two subtypes of influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2) are most commonly seen and the disease is more prevalent in February/March and July.
Avian ( H9N2) Influenza
To date, there are only two types of avian influenza virus, H5N1 and H9N2, that can affect humans. Influenza A (H9N2) viruses have been isolated in birds for many years. For the first time in Hong Kong, influenza A (H9N2) was recently found to have infected two children aged one and four. They developed acute fever (39-40oC), vomiting, sore throat and headache. Both of them recovered fully without any complication. The Department of Health is working closely with local and overseas experts to ascertain the mode of transmission of the virus and determine its public health impact.
Prevention
Good body resistance is important. This can be achieved through a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate rest, reducing stress and no smoking. When one is feeling unwell, it is better to avoid crowded public places where the air ventilation is not good. Avoiding contact with live poultry will also minimise the chance of getting bird flu. Hands should be washed thoroughly with soap and water after handling live poultry. It is also prudent for children not to contact birds and chicken.
Treatment
The H9N2 virus is sensitive to amantadine. However, this drug should only be used carefully under doctor's supervision because it can cause neurological and gastrointestinal side effects. For general management, patients should have adequate rest and fluid intake. Anti-fever medicine and cough syrup are useful to reduce symptoms. Patients should also observe personal hygiene and wash their hands frequently. Aspirin should not be used in children because of the association with Reye's Syndrome.
For patients with underlying diseases or when there are signs of deterioration e.g. persistent high fever or shortness of breath, they should seek early medical advice. It is preferable to follow up the illness by the same doctor to avoid delay in diagnosis and treatment.
Advice to child care workers and school teachers
1. Child care workers and teachers are advised to take note of the health of children under their care and ensure that proper personal hygiene is observed. Children with influenza like illness should seek medical advice and stay at home. The Department of Health's Regional Offices are ready to provide assistance and support. Their addresses and telephone numbers are:
Hong Kong Region
30/F Wu Chung House
213 Queen's Road East
Wanchai
Hong Kong
Tel. No. : 2961 8729
Kowloon Region
1/F, Hospital authority
Building
147B Argyle Street
Kowloon
Tel. No. : 2199 9100
New Territories Region (East)
5/F Citylink Plaza
1 Shatin Station Circuit
New Territories
Tel. No. : 2684 5138
New Territories Region (West)
1/F
115 Castle Peak Road
Tsuen Wan
Tel. No. : 2413 8388 Ext 24, 25 or 40, or 2411 6949
2. Small animals kept at schools or child care centres should be carefully looked after. Replacement by other suitable substitutes should be considered. Children should be guided to keep a safe distance from the animals and refrain from direct contact with them.