Update on cluster of Influenza A cases in Castle Peak Hospital
******************************************************

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     Regarding the announcement yesterday on a number of patients in a general adult psychiatric male ward confirmed with Influenza A, the spokesperson for Castle Peak Hospital (CPH) made the following update today (May 24):

     Six more patients (aged 26 to 75) in the ward had presented with flu symptoms. Appropriate viral tests were arranged for the patients. Three of the patients tested positive for Influenza A. The patients concerned are being treated under isolation and are in stable condition.

     Admission to the ward has been suspended and restricted visiting to the ward has been imposed. Infection control measures have already been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the ward concerned are under close surveillance.

     The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.

Ends/Thursday, May 24, 2012
Issued at HKT 18:54

NNNN