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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is drawing public attention to its investigation into a confirmed case of severe paediatric influenza A infection affecting a three-year-old boy.
The boy, who has underlying medical condition, presented with fever and malaise since January 3. He developed shock after admission to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit of Prince of Wales Hospital (PWH) the following day.
The clinical diagnosis is pneumonia. He is now in critical condition.
His nasopharyngeal aspirate tested positive for influenza A by PWH.
The boy has no recent travel history. His elder brother and sister developed mild upper respiratory symptoms recently.
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 by having 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/Saturday, January 5, 2013
Issued at HKT 13:00
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