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A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said today (March 20) that a total of 23 reports have been received so far through the influenza surveillance arrangement set up by the CHP with private and public hospitals.
Three of them are new cases reported to the CHP today. Relevant influenza tests are still in progress.
The spokesman said the cumulative figures for cases reported to the CHP through the influenza surveillance arrangement to monitor the trend of influenza-related complications in children are as follows:
A. Reports with positive test results for influenza
Total no. of reports 6
No. of patients discharged 5
No. of patients in hospital 1 (stable condition)
B. Reports with preliminary negative test results
for influenza
Total no. of reports 13
C. Reports pending laboratory test result for
influenza
Total no. of reports 4
D. Total reports
Total no. of reports recorded since March 13 23
No. of patients discharged 11
No. of patients in hospital 12
Meanwhile, CHP received today one report of an influenza-like illness (ILI) outbreak affecting three people in an elderly home in Kwun Tong (see Annex).
The spokesman said the ILI outbreak may be caused by influenza or other respiratory viruses. CHP's officials have visited the elderly home and provided health advice to the staff accordingly.
The telephone hotline (2125 1133) set up by CHP to answer public enquiries on seasonal influenza has so far received 230 calls. It will continue to operate between 9am and 6pm from Monday to Friday except public holidays.
Members of the public are advised to maintain good personal as well as 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 the institutional outbreaks, preventive tips and a daily update of the influenza situation will be available in CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk) shortly.
Ends/Thursday, March 20, 2008
Issued at HKT 20:01
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