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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (October 19) 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 at a kindergarten in Southern District involving 20 pupils aged between 3 and 5.
Investigation revealed that the affected pupils, comprising 12 males and eight females, developed URI symptoms including fever, cough, sore throat and runny nose since October 4. No hospitalisation was required. All the affected pupils are now in a stable condition.
Staff of the CHP conducted a site visit and provided health advice to the kindergarten, which was put under medical surveillance.
To prevent URI and influenza, the public are advised to adopt the following measures:
* Build up good body immunity by having a balanced diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
* Maintain good personal and environmental hygiene, and wash hands after sneezing, coughing and cleaning their nose. 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 URI infection.
For more information on the disease, members of the public may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Issued at HKT 16:50
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