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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 13) reminded members of the public and management of institutions to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene to prevent influenza.
The appeal followed the CHP's investigation into an influenza A outbreak at a residential care home for persons with disabilities in Eastern District, affecting 20 residents aged between 34 and 81.
The affected persons, comprising 14 males and six females, developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough and runny nose, from December 31 to January 9.
All affected residents have sought medical consultation. Nineteen of them required hospitalisation and 17 of them have been discharged. All are in stable condition.
The respiratory specimens taken from 17 affected residents tested positive for influenza A.
CHP staff have visited the institution and advised the management to adopt measures against respiratory tract infection.
To prevent respiratory tract infection, members of the public are 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 cleaning the nose, and wear a mask when having symptoms of respiratory tract infection;
* Maintain good ventilation;
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation; and
* Receive seasonal influenza vaccination. For details, please visit the Influenza Page of the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/14843.html).
Ends/Monday, January 13, 2014
Issued at HKT 18:00
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