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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (November 23) urged members of the public and management of institutions to take preventive measures against respiratory tract infection by observing strict environmental and personal hygiene.
The appeal was made following the CHP's investigation of an outbreak of respiratory tract infection affecting 20 students of a kindergarten cum child care centre in Kowloon City.
The affected, comprising 13 boys and seven girls aged from three to four, developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat since November 7.
The CHP's investigation revealed that all of the affected pupils were stable and none of them required hospitalisation.
CHP officials have visited the school and provided health advice to the staff.
To prevent respiratory tract infection, the public are advised to adopt the following measures:
* Build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
* Maintain good personal hygiene;
* Wash hands after sneezing or coughing;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation.
Members of the public, particularly children, elderly people and those with chronic diseases, should wear face masks and consult their doctors promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.
Ends/Monday, November 23, 2009
Issued at HKT 19:55
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