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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (March 26) investigating a case of severe paediatric influenza B infection affecting a 19-month-old girl.
The patient, with good past health, developed fever and convulsion since March 24. She was admitted to Caritas Medical Centre on the same day. Her clinical diagnosis was status epilepticus. She is currently in stable condition.
Her respiratory specimen tested positive for influenza B virus upon laboratory testing by Princess Margaret Hospital.
Initial enquiries by the CHP revealed that the patient had no recent travel history.
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/Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Issued at HKT 16:02
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