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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (January 30) investigating a case of severe paediatric influenza A infection complicated by pneumonia affecting a boy aged 2.
The patient, with good past health, was brought to the Accident and Emergency Department of Kwong Wah Hospital (KWH) on January 15 because of fever and shortness of breath. He was admitted and subsequently transferred to Paediatric Intensive Care Unit on the same day. As his condition improved, he was transferred to the general ward for further management. He is currently in a stable condition.
His clinical diagnosis was pneumonia.
His nasopharyngeal aspirate tested positive for influenza A(H1N1) virus upon laboratory testing by KWH.
He has no recent travel history. His home contacts have remained 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/Thursday, January 30, 2014
Issued at HKT 17:48
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