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The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
A spokesman for Siu Lam Hospital (SLH) made the following announcement today (September 8):
Thirteen patients (aged 29 to 58) of a male ward for the severe mentally handicapped in SLH have presented with fever and respiratory symptoms since September 2. All the patients are being treated under isolation and are now in stable condition. Appropriate tests have been arranged for the patients. Viral test results of all the patients are positive to Influenza A but negative to human swine influenza.
Infection control measures of the concerned ward have already been stepped up. Admission to and discharge from the ward have been suspended, while restricted visiting policy has been implemented. Patients' relatives have been informed about the situation. All other patients and the staff in the ward are under close surveillance.
The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for follow up.
Ends/Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Issued at HKT 19:29
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