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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (October 12) called on the public to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent upper respiratory tract infection (URI).
The appeal followed the CHP's investigation into a URI outbreak in a kindergarten in Tai Po involving 24 pupils aged between three and five.
Investigation revealed that the affected persons, comprising 14 boys and 10 girls, developed URI symptoms including fever, runny nose, cough and sore throat since September 9.
Six of the affected were admitted to Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital and five of them have been discharged. All the affected are in stable condition.
Nasopharyngeal aspirate specimens of three affected students were tested positive for adenovirus.
Staff of the CHP had conducted a site visit and provided health advice to the school.
To prevent URI and influenza, 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, and wash hands after sneezing, coughing and wear a mask when developing symptoms of respiratory infections;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* 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, people may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Issued at HKT 18:45
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