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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 outbreak at a primary school in North District, affecting 20 students.
The affected students, comprising seven males and 13 females aged between 5 and 12, developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough and sore throat, since February 16.
None required hospitalisation. All are in stable condition.
One student's 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/Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Issued at HKT 15:53
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