CHP investigates case of severe paediatric influenza A infection
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The 22-month-old baby girl, with underlying illnesses, developed cough, runny nose and convulsions since May 30. She was admitted to Yan Chai Hospital yesterday (May 31) and subsequently transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit of Princess Margaret Hospital on the same day for further management.
The clinical diagnosis was influenza A infection complicated with encephalopathy and she has been in a stable condition. Her nasopharyngeal aspirate tested positive for influenza A virus upon laboratory testing.
Initial enquiries revealed that the patient had not received seasonal influenza vaccination for the current season and had no travel history during the incubation period. Her elder sister recently had symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection and has recovered. Other home contacts have remained asymptomatic so far.
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 as an effective alternative;
- 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 influenza page, weekly Flu Express report and vaccination schemes page for more information.
Ends/Thursday, June 1, 2017
Issued at HKT 18:32
Issued at HKT 18:32
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