Press Release

Influenza-like illness outbreak under CHP investigation

11 November 2013

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (November 11) investigating an influenza-like illness outbreak at a kindergarten in Wan Chai affecting 20 pupils, and hence reminded members of the public and staff of institutions to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene against influenza.

The affected pupils, comprising 14 boys and 6 girls aged between 3 and 6, developed symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection, including fever, coughing and sore throat, since October 31.

One of the girls aged 5 required hospitalisation and has been discharged. The respiratory specimens of the girl and another 6-year-old boy both tested positive for Influenza A upon laboratory testing.

All the affected pupils are in a stable condition.

Officers of the CHP have visited the school and advised the management to adopt measures against respiratory tract infection.

To prevent respiratory tract infections, the CHP advised members of the public 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 cleaning the nose;
• Wear a mask when having symptoms of respiratory tract infections;
• Maintain good ventilation;
• Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation; and
• Receive seasonal influenza vaccination. For details, please visit the CHP's Influenza Page ( www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/14843.html ).