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Influenza surveillance systems of the Centre of Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health recently picked up a mild increase influenza activity.
A spokesman for CHP today (January 10) said: "There was a mild increase in influenza virus detections in the laboratory. Higher consultation rates of influenza-like-illnesses were reported among sentinel private medical practitioners.
"As the observation period is short and the increase is relatively mild, it cannot be concluded at this stage that Hong Kong has entered the influenza peak season. Nonetheless, members of the public are reminded to be vigilant."
Meanwhile, the Public Health Laboratory of CHP found small number of influenza isolates (A/H3/Brisbane, B/Florida) that recently appeared in different countries in the world. Influenza viruses are well known to undergo genetic changes over time.
"While there is so far no indication that these influenza virus strains are associated with more severe illness, CHP will monitor the situation closely."
He appealed to members of the public who are at higher risk of complications from influenza to get vaccinated against influenza if they have not already done so. The vaccine will confer some degree of protection against influenza related complications. Those who are eligible for free influenza vaccination under the Government Influenza Vaccination Program can visit appropriate venues promulgated by the Government.
To prevent influenza and other respiratory tract infections, the public are advised to adopt a healthy lifestyle and adhere to the following health advice:
* To build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
* To maintain good personal hygiene, and wash hands after sneezing, coughing and wear a mask when developing symptoms of respiratory infections;
* To maintain good ventilation; and
* To avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation, especially during peak flu season.
Members of the public, particularly children, elderly people 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 preventive measures can be found in CHP's website www.chp.gov.hk.
Ends/Thursday, January 10, 2008
Issued at HKT 20:58
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