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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health seeks to draw public attention to its investigation into a confirmed case of severe paediatric influenza A infection affecting a 4-year-old boy.
The boy presented with fever, cough and shortness of breath on June 4. He was admitted to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit of Kwong Wah Hospital the next day. The clinical diagnosis was pneumonia. His current condition is critical.
His nasopharyngeal aspirate tested positive for influenza A.
He has no recent travel history. His home contacts have no flu symptoms.
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 through 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/Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Issued at HKT 18:49
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