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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating an outbreak of an influenza-like illness affecting 36 children in a kindergarten in Causeway Bay today (June 22).
A spokesman for the CHP called on members of the public and management of institutions to take preventive measures against the disease by observing strict environmental and personal hygiene.
CHP's investigation revealed that 36 children, comprising 19 boys and 17 girls aged from 3 to 6, developed influenza-like illness, including fever, cough and sore throat between June 5 and 21.
Of them, 33 consulted general practitioners, out-patient clinics or emergency department. Three were admitted to hospitals - Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital and St Paul's Hospital. Two of them had been discharged while a boy is now in hospital in stable condition.
Preliminary laboratory tests showed that a sample taken from the respiratory tract of a patient yielded positive result for influenza B.
Staff of the CHP has conducted field visits to the school and provided health instructions to the staff.
CHP has put the school under close watch and will provide further health advice.
To prevent influenza and respiratory tract infection, people are advised to adopt the following measures:
* Build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
* Maintain good personal hygiene, and wash hands after sneezing, coughing and wear a mask when developing symptoms of respiratory infections;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation, especially during peak influenza season.
People, particularly children, the elderly and those with chronic diseases, should wear face masks and consult their doctors for medical advice promptly if they developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection.
For more information on the disease, members of the public may visit the CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Friday, June 22, 2007
Issued at HKT 18:51
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