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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (February 22) investigating another case of severe paediatric influenza A infection affecting a boy aged 10.
The patient, with underlying illnesses, developed fever and cough since February 17. He was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital (TMH) on February 19 and was subsequently transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit. His clinical diagnosis was chest infection and he is currently in critical condition.
His respiratory specimen tested positive for influenza A(H1) virus upon laboratory testing by TMH.
The patient lives in a school hostel and has no travel history. The CHP's investigation revealed that he is the roommate of the 15-year-old female patient in another case of severe paediatric influenza A infection announced earlier today.
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/Saturday, February 22, 2014
Issued at HKT 22:33
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