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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (January 12) investigating a case of severe paediatric influenza A infection affecting an 11-year-old boy.
The patient, with good past health, has presented with fever, cough and shortness of breath since January 8. He was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital (TMH) on January 11 and transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit for further management on the same day. He is currently in serious condition.
His nasopharyngeal aspirate tested positive for influenza A (H3) virus upon laboratory testing by TMH.
Initial investigation revealed that he had no travel history during incubation period. His home contacts remained asymptomatic.
Investigation is ongoing.
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;
* When influenza is prevalent, avoid going to crowded or poorly ventilated public places; high-risk individuals may consider to put on surgical masks when staying in these places; 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/Monday, January 12, 2015
Issued at HKT 20:39
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