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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is drawing public attention to its investigation into a confirmed case of severe paediatric influenza B infection affecting a 6-year-old girl.
The girl, who has had good past health, presented with fever, cough and runny nose since January 18. She was admitted to Prince of Wales Hospital (PWH) for treatment on January 24 and was discharged the next day.
The girl was admitted to PWH again on January 27 for persistent malaise and progressive swelling of four limbs. She was transferred to Queen Mary Hospital on January 28 for further management.
The clinical diagnosis is myocarditis. She is now in stable condition.
Her nasopharyngeal aspirate tested positive for influenza B by PWH.
The girl has no recent travel history. Her parents developed mild upper respiratory symptoms recently.
A spokesman reminded members of the public to stay vigilant and take precautionary measures against influenza.
They are advised to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene and build up good body immunity by having a proper diet and regular exercise, taking adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking.
More details on prevention of influenza are available on the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Monday, January 30, 2012
Issued at HKT 19:00
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