The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (February 5) investigating an influenza A outbreak at a primary school in Tai Po District and an outbreak of influenza-like illness at a primary school in Sai Kung District.

     The influenza A outbreak at a primary school in Tai Po District affected 20 students including 15 boys and five girls, aged 6 to 10. They have developed fever, cough and sore throat since January 19. Of the 15 patients who sought medical attention, one was discharged upon hospitalisation. All affected students are in stable condition.

     The nasopharyngeal aspirate of a patient tested positive for influenza A virus upon laboratory testing.
 
     For the outbreak of influenza-like illness at a primary school in Sai Kung District, it affected 27 students including 11 boys and 16 girls, aged 6 to 10. They have developed fever, cough and sore throat since January 19. All patients sought medical attention and one required hospitalisation. All affected students are in stable condition.

      Officers of the CHP have conducted site visits to both schools and advised the schools to adopt infection control measures against respiratory infections. The schools have been put under medical surveillance.

     A spokesman for the CHP said, "To prevent outbreaks of influenza and other respiratory infections, it is of prime importance that children with fever, regardless of the presence of respiratory symptoms, should not be allowed to attend school. They should seek medical advice and avoid school till 48 hours after the fever has subsided. Schools should also measure and record students' body temperature properly."

     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.

     The spokesman said, "The local seasonal influenza activity is expected to remain at an elevated level in the coming few weeks. Children, the elderly and those with underlying illnesses are recommended to get vaccinated against seasonal influenza for better personal protection. People 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 prevention, care and control for vulnerable people."

     Besides receiving seasonal influenza vaccination for personal protection, the public should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene for protection against influenza and other respiratory illnesses. For more information, please visit the CHP's influenza page and weekly Flu Express.

Ends/Monday, February 5, 2018
Issued at HKT 20:14

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