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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (November 1) investigating an outbreak of upper respiratory tract infection affecting 12 residents and eight staff members at a residential care home for the disabled in Sai Kung District.
The affected residents aged from 19 to 64, comprising 11 males and one female, together with eight staff members, developed symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection, including fever, runny nose, cough and sore throat, since October 11.
None required hospitalisation. All the 20 affected persons are in stable condition.
CHP staff conducted a site visit and provided health advice to the institution, 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 infection;
* 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/Thursday, November 1, 2012
Issued at HKT 16:03
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