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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (August 29) called on the public and institution managements to take preventive measures against respiratory tract infection by observing strict environmental and personal hygiene. The call came after 35 people at an institution for the mentally retarded in Kwun Tong showed symptoms of upper respiratory infections.
CHP's investigation revealed that those affected - 20 residents and 15 staff members - developed symptoms, including cough, sore throat and runny nose between July 31 and August 25.
They comprised 12 males and 23 females aged from 23 to 58. Of them, 33 consulted private doctors, out-patient clinics or emergency departments. No hospitalisation was required. Thirty-one have since recovered and the others are in stable condition.
Laboratory tests of throat swabs taken from patients are still in progress.
Staff of the CHP have conducted field visits to the institution and provided health instructions to the staff.
CHP has put the institution 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 develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.
More information on the disease are available from CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Issued at HKT 17:39
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