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A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said no report was received today (March 21) through the influenza surveillance arrangement set up by the CHP with private and public hospitals.
The spokesman said a total of 23 reports have been received so far by the CHP through the influenza surveillance arrangement to monitor the trend of influenza-related complications in children and breakdown figures are as follows:
A. Reports with positive tests results for influenza
Total no. of reports 6
No of patients discharged 6
B. Reports with preliminary negative tests results for influenza
Total no. of reports 17
C. Reports pending laboratory test result for influenza
Total no. of reports 0
D. Total reports
Total no. of reports recorded since March 13 23
No of patients discharged 14
No of patients in hospital 9
The spokesman said influenza-like illness (ILI) may be caused by influenza or other respiratory viruses.
The telephone hotline (2125-1133) set up by CHP to answer public enquiries on seasonal influenza has so far received 230 calls. It will continue to operate between 9 am and 6 pm from Monday to Friday except public holidays.
Members of the public are advised to maintain good personal as well as environmental hygiene and build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise, and adequate rests, reducing stress and avoiding smoking.
More details of preventive tips on influenza are available in CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Friday, March 21, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:17
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