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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has reminded members of the public and management of institutions to maintain good environmental and personal hygiene to prevent influenza.
The reminder followed the CHP's investigation into an influenza-like illness (ILI) outbreak at a primary school in Tai Kok Tsui, affecting 20 students.
The affected children, comprising 12 males and eight females aged between six and nine, developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough and sore throat, since February 5.
Among the affected students, 16 sought medical consultation. One of them, a 6-year-old boy, was admitted to a private hospital. All are in a stable condition.
The hospitalised student was diagnosed to have bronchopneumonia. His nasopharyngeal swab tested positive for influenza B.
CHP staff have visited the school and provided health advice to the management.
To prevent respiratory tract infection, members of 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, wash hands after sneezing or coughing and cleaning the nose, and wear a mask when having symptoms of respiratory tract infection;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation.
Ends/Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Issued at HKT 16:44
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