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CHP investigates case of severe paediatric influenza A infection
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     The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (February 22) investigating a case of severe paediatric influenza A infection, and again urged the public, particularly young children, to get vaccinated promptly and observe strict hand, personal and environmental hygiene amid the winter influenza season. Children, the elderly and those with chronic diseases should promptly seek medical advice if influenza-like symptoms develop.

     The 9-month-old baby girl, with underlying illness, has developed fever, cough and vomiting since February 19. She was taken to Kwong Wah Hospital for management on February 20 and was transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit for further treatment. The clinical diagnosis was pneumonia and she is now in serious condition.

     Her nasopharyngeal aspirate tested positive for influenza A(H1)pdm09 virus by Princess Margaret Hospital.

     The CHP's initial enquiries revealed that the patient had no travel history during the incubation period. Her elder brother with recent upper respiratory symptoms earlier sought medical attention and has been in stable condition. Other home contacts have remained asymptomatic. Investigations are ongoing.

     The public should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene against influenza and other respiratory illnesses:

* Receive seasonal influenza vaccination for personal protection;
* Wash hands with liquid soap and water properly whenever possibly contaminated;
* When hands are not visibly soiled, clean them with 70 to 80 per cent alcohol-based handrub;
* Wash or clean hands frequently, especially before touching the mouth, nose or eyes, or after touching public installations such as handrails or door knobs;
* Cover the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and wash hands thoroughly afterwards;
* Dispose of soiled tissue paper properly in a lidded rubbish bin;
* Put on a surgical mask when respiratory symptoms develop;
* Maintain good indoor ventilation;
* When influenza is prevalent, avoid going to crowded or poorly ventilated public places; high-risk individuals may consider putting on surgical masks when staying in such places; and
* Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, take adequate rest, do not smoke and avoid overstress.

     The public may visit the CHP's pages below for more information:

* The influenza page (www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/14843.html);
* The weekly Flu Express report (www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/2108.html); and
* The vaccination schemes page (www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/17980.html).

Ends/Monday, February 22, 2016
Issued at HKT 18:55

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