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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (October 4) called on people and management of institutions to take preventive measures against respiratory tract infection by observing strict environmental and personal hygiene.
The appeal was made following an outbreak report involving 20 people from a residential home in Causeway Bay who showed symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection.
CHP's investigation revealed that those affected - 19 children and a staff member - developed fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat between September 19 and October 4.
They comprised 10 males and 10 females aged from three months to 32 years. Of them, 16 sought medical attention from private doctors or public clinics. Three others attended the emergency department of Ruttonjee Hospital. None of them were put in hospital. Eighteen have recovered and all 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 or coughing and wear a mask when developing symptoms of respiratory tract infection;
* 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 is available from CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Thursday, October 4, 2007
Issued at HKT 16:37
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