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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (August 3) called on members of the public and management of institutions to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent respiratory tract infection.
The appeal was made following CHP's investigation into an outbreak of respiratory tract infection affecting 22 people including 15 residents and seven staff members in a residential home for the mentally handicapped in Tseung Kwan O.
The affected, comprising 7 males and 15 females aged from 26 to 58, developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat since July 14.
Four residents have been admitted to Tseung Kwan O Hospital. Among them, a 42-year-old man is in critical condition and a 28-year-old man is in stable condition. The remaining two have been discharged.
So far, laboratory results of respiratory specimens taken from the four hospitalised patients were tested negative to human swine influenza.
CHP's investigation is ongoing.
To prevent respiratory tract infection and influenza, the public are advised to adopt the following measures:
* 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
* wash hands after sneezing, coughing and wear a mask when developing symptoms of respiratory infections;
* to maintain good ventilation; and
* to avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation, especially during peak influenza season.
Members of the public, particularly children, elderly people and those with chronic diseases, should wear face masks and consult their doctors for medical advice promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.
For more information on the disease, members of the public may visit the CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Monday, August 3, 2009
Issued at HKT 20:47
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