CHP investigates influenza A outbreak at kindergarten-cum-child care centre in Tin Shui Wai and influenza-like illness outbreak at primary school in Tsuen Wan
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The influenza A outbreak at the kindergarten-cum-child care centre in Tin Shui Wai involves seven boys and 18 girls aged 2 to 6, as well as two female staff members. They have developed fever, cough and sore throat since January 11. Among them, 26 have sought medical attention and eight required hospitalisation for treatment. All of them are now in a stable condition. The respiratory specimens of 11 affected students and one affected staff member tested positive for influenza A virus.
Separately, the influenza-like illness outbreak at the primary school in Tsuen Wan has affected eight boys and 12 girls aged 6 to 12, who have developed fever, cough and sore throat since January 12. All of them sought medical attention but none required hospitalisation. They are all in stable condition.
Officers of the CHP have conducted site visits to the kindergarten-cum-child care centre and the primary school concerned. Both schools have been advised to adopt necessary infection control measures against respiratory infections and have been put under medical surveillance.
Schools are reminded to follow the Guidelines on Prevention of Communicable Diseases on preventive and control measures as well as management of outbreaks, which should be reported to the CHP for prompt follow-up.
"Hong Kong has entered the 2017-18 winter influenza season. We anticipate that local seasonal influenza activity will continue to rise in the coming weeks and remain at an elevated level for some time. Members of the public should maintain good personal protection against influenza," a spokesman for the CHP said.
"Particularly, children, the elderly and those with underlying illnesses are urged to get vaccinated as early as possible to prevent seasonal influenza as it takes about two weeks for antibodies to develop in the body after vaccination. They should promptly seek medical advice if influenza-like symptoms develop so that appropriate treatment can be initiated as early as possible to prevent potential complications. Parents and carers are reminded to render assistance in personal protection and prevention measures for vulnerable people," the spokesman added.
The public can visit the CHP's influenza page, weekly Flu Express report and vaccination schemes page for more information on influenza and other respiratory illnesses.
Ends/Wednesday, January 17, 2018
Issued at HKT 18:35
Issued at HKT 18:35
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