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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (April 26) received no report through the influenza surveillance arrangement set up by the CHP with private and public hospitals.
Among the 33 cases reported under the arrangement since March 13, 10 cases have laboratory evidence of influenza including nine discharged cases and one case in stable condition.
For the other 23 cases who had preliminary influenza test negative, 16 were discharged, five patients were still in hopsital, and two had died. The two fatal patients were the 11-year-old boy reported on April 23 and a three-year-old girl reported having detected human metapneumovirus (hMPV). She had underlying medical condition and passed away at Queen Elizabeth Hospital this morning.
hMPV has been reported worldwide and known to cause respiratory tract infection predominantly in children. Symptoms are usually mild to moderate in healthy children. It is transmitted by direct contact or through contact with contaminated secretions.
A spokesman for CHP said members of the public should remain vigilant by taking precautionary measures against influenza. They 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 preventive tips on influenza are available on CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Saturday, April 26, 2008
Issued at HKT 17:02
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