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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (February 4) investigating a case of severe paediatric influenza B affecting a boy aged 10.
The patient, with underlying illness, has presented with cough, sputum and runny nose since January 17, and fever since January 31. He was admitted to Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital on February 1. He developed chest pain after admission. The clinical diagnosis was acute myocarditis.
His nasopharyngeal aspirate tested positive for influenza B virus upon preliminary laboratory testing by Prince of Wales Hospital. He is currently in stable condition.
Initial enquiries by the CHP revealed that the patient had no recent travel history. His father who presented with upper respiratory symptoms has recovered and the other home contact has 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/Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Issued at HKT 16:11
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