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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (September 20) urged members of the public and management of institutions to maintain good environmental and personal hygiene to prevent influenza.
The appeal was made after the CHP received two reports of influenza-like-illness (ILI) outbreaks in correctional institutions, affecting 53 inmates in total.
The first case involved 33 male inmates, aged between 21 and 53 in a correctional institution in Southern District. They developed symptoms of ILI since September 15.
All of the affected sought medical treatment at the correctional institution. One of them was admitted to Queen Mary Hospital. All are now in stable condition.
Throat swabs taken from two affected inmates tested negative for influenza A and B. Further tests are being done.
Another case involved 20 male inmates, aged between 21 and 57, in a correctional institution in Islands District. All of them showed ILI symptoms from September 15 onwards.
They sought medical consultation from doctors at the correctional institution and they are now in stable condition. No hospitalisation was required.
Investigation into the outbreaks continue.
Health advice was given to the two correctional institutions and they have been put under medical surveillance.
To prevent respiratory tract infection, members of 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, and wear a mask when having symptoms of respiratory tract infection;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation.
Ends/Monday, September 20, 2010
Issued at HKT 18:46
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