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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
Regarding the services of the eight Designated Flu Clinics (DFCs) and the confirmed human swine influenza (HSI) patients admitted to public hospitals, the Hospital Authority (HA) spokesman provided the following updates today (July 13):
The Designated Flu Clinics today (as at 5pm) provide treatment to a total of 457 patients.
The HA spokesman reminded the public that the eight DFCs have ceased the provision of general outpatient services. Patients with other illnesses are advised to seek medical treatment at other general outpatient clinics in the district or private practitioners. Chronic patients who have been pre-scheduled for follow up at the eight DFCs should proceed to their corresponding clinics with drug refill service according to their date of original appointment and bring along the appointment slip and Identity Card.
As at 2.30pm today, there were 62 newly confirmed cases of human swine influenza in the past 24 hours. This brings to 1,327 the total number of confirmed human swine influenza cases in Hong Kong. Currently, a total of 15 confirmed cases are staying in public hospitals for treatment. Among them, 14 cases are in stable condition and one in critical condition.
Among the confirmed cases was a ward manager of Caritas Medical Center (CMC) with flu symptoms since July 10. He attended the Accident & Emergency Department of CMC on July 11. Positive result of HSI was confirmed on July 12. He is now under isolation with Tamiflu at home. His condition is stable.
The ward manager works in a male surgical ward of CMC and has been following strictly the HA Infection Control Guidelines for patient care. He wears surgical mask when he is on duty and practising hand hygiene during his clinical duty. The hospital will continue to follow the HA Infection Control Guidelines and implement relevant hygiene measures to protect patients and staff.
Ends/Monday, July 13, 2009
Issued at HKT 19:29
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