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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (January 10) investigating a case of severe paediatric influenza A infection affecting a one-year-old boy.
The patient, with underlying illness, presented with fever and cough since December 24, 2013. He was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital on the same day. His respiratory specimen tested positive for influenza B and his condition improved after treatment.
The patient developed fever again on January 4. His respiratory specimen was taken again and was tested positive for influenza A. His condition deteriorated and was subsequently transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit for further management on January 9. The boy is now in critical condition.
The patient has no recent travel history. His home contacts are asymptomatic.
To prevent respiratory tract infections, a spokesman for the CHP urged members of the public to take heed of the following advice:
* Build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
* Maintain good personal hygiene, wash hands after sneezing or coughing and cleaning the nose, and wear a mask when symptoms of respiratory tract infection develop;
* Maintain good ventilation;
* Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation; and
* Receive seasonal influenza vaccination. For details, please visit the Influenza Page of the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/14843.html).
Ends/Friday, January 10, 2014
Issued at HKT 23:05
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