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The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health (CHP) today (January 23) urged members of the public to be vigilant against influenza upon receipt of notification of a serious case of confirmed Influenza A affecting an eight-month-old baby boy.
The boy presented with fever and cough since January 13 and was admitted to a private hospital the next day. His fever persisted and he was transferred to Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) on January 21 for further treatment. He is currently in the paediatric intensive care in serious condition.
His nasopharyngeal aspirate specimen tested positive for Influenza A. Further test is on-going.
The boy¡¦s close contacts had symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection and had recovered uneventfully after seeking medical consultation.
A spokesman for CHP reminded members of the public to stay vigilant and take precautionary measures against influenza.
They are advised to maintain good personal as well as environmental hygiene and build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise, and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking.
More details on preventive tips regarding influenza are available on CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Sunday, January 23, 2011
Issued at HKT 16:55
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