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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (January 24) investigating a case of severe paediatric influenza A infection affecting a boy aged 15.
The patient was admitted to United Christian Hospital (UCH) for his underlying illness on December 31, 2013. He developed fever and cough since January 13, 2014 and was transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit on January 24 for further management.
His clinical diagnosis was severe pneumonia and shock.
His respiratory specimens tested positive for influenza A(H1) virus upon laboratory testing by UCH. He is currently in a critical condition.
He has no recent travel history and his home contacts have remained asymptomatic.
To prevent respiratory tract infections, a spokesman for the CHP urged 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 after sneezing or coughing and cleaning the nose, and wear a mask when symptoms of respiratory tract infection develop;
* 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/Friday, January 24, 2014
Issued at HKT 19:38
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