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A spokesman for the Centre of Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 3) reminded the public to stay vigilant against influenza during the Chinese New Year as Hong Kong has entered the winter peak influenza season.
The spokesman provided below the number of new reports received by CHP during the 24 hours ending at 2pm today.
During the period, the CHP received no reports of institutional outbreaks of influenza-like illness.
Through its enhanced influenza surveillance system with the Hospital Authority (HA), two reports of influenza associated admissions to intensive care units (ICU) of public hospitals were received. The period saw no reports of influenza associated deaths.
The CHP received one report of influenza-associated ICU admissions in private hospital. A 39 years old woman with chronic disease was admitted to a private hospital with stable condition. Preliminary test was positive for flu and further confirmatory test is pending.
In the same period, one report of severe paediatric influenza-associated complications, involving a 25 months old girl, was received. This case was included in the two cases reported by the HA. The girl was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital.
The spokesman reminded members of the public to stay alert 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. High risk groups are strongly urged to receive influenza vaccination as soon as possible to protect their health.
Ends/Thursday, February 3, 2011
Issued at HKT 18:36
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