***********************************************************
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (February 29) investigating an influenza A outbreak in a primary school in Sha Tin, and hence reminded members of the public to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene to protect against influenza.
The 22 affected pupils, eight boys and 14 girls aged 7 to 10, have developed fever, cough and sore throat since February 18. Among them, 20 sought medical attention and one of them has been discharged after hospitalisation. All of them are now in stable condition.
The respiratory specimen of the hospitalised pupil tested positive for influenza A virus upon testing by the hospital.
Officers of the CHP have conducted a site visit and advised the school to adopt necessary infection control measures against respiratory infections. The school has been put under medical surveillance.
The public should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene for protection 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;
* 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 29, 2016
Issued at HKT 18:12
NNNN
