March 12, 2003
The Department of Health (DH) has been conducting a detailed investigation into the case of Prince of Wales Hospital staff developing fever and respiratory infection symptoms. A DH spokesman today (March 12) said that questionnaires were being used to gather relevant information from staff members for further analysis. "Fifty staff members had been screened and out of these, 23 who had febrile illness were admitted last night and put under observation as a precautionary measure. Amongst them, eight subsequently were noted to have early chest X-ray signs of pneumonia. Their conditions are stable." "In addition, two out of three staff members who were admitted earlier to hospitals for treatment had chest X-ray signs of pneumonia." "Investigations with the Hospital Authority and the Chinese University of Hong Kong are continuing to identify the cause of infection," he said. Health education was also given to hospital staff concerned, he added. The Department has informed the World Heath Organization (WHO) of the developments. Hong Kong, as a member of WHO's Western Pacific Region, will work closely with WHO on disease control and prevention. The spokesman reminded members of the public to take the following measures to prevent respiratory infections:
To build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
To maintain good personal hygiene, and wash hands after sneezing, coughing or cleaning the nose;
To maintain good ventilation;
To avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation; an
The young, the elderly and those with chronic diseases should consult their doctor promptly if they develop respiratory symptoms.