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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 26) appealed to members of the public to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent upper respiratory tract infection (URI).
The appeal followed the CHP's investigation into a URI outbreak at a secondary school in Tseung Kwan O, affecting 21 students (11 boys and 10 girls) aged 13 to 17.
Investigations revealed that the affected persons developed symptoms of URI including fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat since February 18.
Thirteen of them sought medical consultation and none required hospitalisation. All the affected students are currently in stable condition.
Officers of the CHP conducted a site visit and provided preventive advice against URI to the school. The school was put under medical surveillance.
To prevent URI and influenza, the public should 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 and environmental hygiene and wash hands after sneezing, coughing and cleaning the nose. Wear a mask if symptoms of respiratory infections develop;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation, especially during peak influenza seasons.
Members of the public, particularly children, the elderly and those with chronic diseases, should wear a face mask and consult a doctor promptly if they develop symptoms of URI.
The public can visit the CHP website (www.chp.gov.hk) for more information on URI.
Ends/Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Issued at HKT 14:08
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