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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (July 31) investigating an influenza-like illness outbreak at an elderly home in Aberdeen affecting 20 residents and reminds members of the public and staff of institutions to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene against influenza.
The affected residents, four men and 16 women, aged between 65 and 102, had developed symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection, including fever, coughing, runny nose and sore throat, since July 23.
Five of them required hospitalisation and all of them are currently in stable condition.
The respiratory tract specimens of three affected residents tested positive for influenza A.
Officers of the CHP have visited the elderly home and advised the management to adopt measures against respiratory tract infection.
To prevent respiratory tract infection, the CHP advises members of the public to take heed of the following advice:
* 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 before touching the eyes, nose and mouth, after using a toilet and after sneezing or coughing and cleaning the nose;
* Wear a mask when having symptoms of respiratory tract infection;
* Maintain good ventilation;
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation; and
* Get a seasonal influenza vaccination. For details, please visit the CHP's Influenza Page (www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/14843.html).
Ends/Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Issued at HKT 16:34
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