**********************************************************
The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The spokesperson for Siu Lam Hospital made the following announcement today (December 19):
Three patients (aged 19 to 38) in a male severe mentally handicapped ward had presented with fever and respiratory symptoms since December 17. Appropriate viral tests were arranged for the patients and the test results were positive for Influenza A.
In addition, regarding an earlier announcement on a cluster of confirmed cases of Influenza A in a female severe mentally handicapped ward, one more 21-year-old patient and a staff member in the ward had presented with fever and respiratory symptoms today. Appropriate viral tests were arranged for the patient and the test results were positive for Influenza A.
The patients concerned are being treated under isolation and are in stable condition. The staff member is currently on sick leave.
Admission to the wards has been suspended and restricted visiting has been imposed. Infection control measures have already been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the wards concerned are under close surveillance.
The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.
Ends/Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Issued at HKT 19:35
NNNN
