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Case of severe paediatric influenza A infection under CHP investigation
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     The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (January 15) investigating a case of severe paediatric influenza A infection affecting a 4-year-old boy.

     The patient, with good past health, has presented with fever, cough, runny nose and convulsion since January 13. He was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) on January 14 and developed shock. He was transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit for further management on January 15. He is currently in stable condition.

      His nasopharyngeal swab tested positive for influenza A (H3) virus upon laboratory testing by QEH.

     Initial investigation revealed that he had no travel history during incubation period.  His mother had cough since January 15 and is currently in stable condition. Other 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/Thursday, January 15, 2015
Issued at HKT 20:52

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