Update on cluster of Influenza B cases in Siu Lam Hospital
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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     Regarding the recent confirmation of a cluster of patients infected with Influenza B in a female ward for the severely intellectually disabled, the spokesperson for Siu Lam Hospital gave the following update today (February 24):

     One more 47-year-old patient and one staff member in the ward had presented with respiratory symptoms. Appropriate viral tests were arranged for the patient and her test results were confirmed positive for Influenza B. The patient concerned is being treated under isolation in stable condition. The staff member concerned is currently on leave.

     Admission to the ward has been suspended and restricted visiting has been imposed. Infection control measures have already been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the ward concerned are under close surveillance.

     The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.

Ends/Monday, February 24, 2014
Issued at HKT 16:55

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