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CHP investigates case of severe paediatric influenza B infection
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     The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (June 9) investigating a case of severe paediatric influenza B infection, and again urged the public, particularly young children, to get vaccinated promptly and observe strict hand, personal and environmental hygiene. Children, the elderly and those with chronic diseases should promptly seek medical advice if influenza-like symptoms develop.

     The three-year-old boy, with underlying illness, has presented with fever, cough, and runny nose since June 3. He was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) on June 8 and subsequently transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit on June 9 for further management. The patient is currently in critical condition.

     His nasopharyngeal swab tested positive for influenza B virus by the QEH. His clinical diagnosis was pneumonia.

     The CHP's initial enquiries revealed that the patient had travelled to Guangdong from May 31 to June 4. His home contact 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 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/Thursday, June 9, 2016
Issued at HKT 19:13

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