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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (October 10) investigating an outbreak of upper respiratory tract infection affecting 14 students and six staff members at a special school in Yuen Long.
The affected students aged from 6 to 15, comprising nine males and five females, together with six staff members developed symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection, including fever, runny nose, cough and sore throat, since September 12.
Two of the affected students were admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital for medical treatment and one of them has already been discharged.
All the 20 affected persons are in stable condition.
CHP staff conducted a site visit and provided health advice to the special school, which was put under medical surveillance.
To prevent upper respiratory tract infection and influenza, the public is 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 wear a mask when developing symptoms of respiratory infections;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation.
Members of the public, particularly children, the elderly and those with chronic diseases, should wear face masks and consult their doctors for medical advice promptly if they develop symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection.
For more information on the disease, members of the public may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Issued at HKT 18:08
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