CHP investigates outbreak of upper respiratory tract infection at kindergarten in Tuen Mun
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The outbreak affected 11 boys and 13 girls aged 2 to 5, as well as three female staff members, who have developed URI symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat since October 1. Twenty-four of them sought medical attention. Among them, three required hospitalisation. All patients are now in stable condition.
The nasopharyngeal swab of one boy tested positive for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) upon laboratory testing.
Officers of the CHP have conducted a site visit and advised the kindergarten to adopt necessary infection control measures against respiratory tract infections. The kindergarten has been placed under medical surveillance.
A CHP spokesman said RSV infection occurs throughout the year in Hong Kong. RSV may cause respiratory tract diseases such as infection of the airway, lungs and middle ear.
The public should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene for protection against influenza and other respiratory illnesses:
- Receive seasonal influenza vaccination for personal protection;
- Wash hands with liquid soap and water properly whenever possibly contaminated;
- When hands are not visibly soiled, clean them with 70 to 80 per cent alcohol-based handrub as an effective alternative;
- Wash or clean hands frequently, especially before touching the mouth, nose or eyes, or after touching public installations such as handrails or door knobs;
- Cover the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and wash hands thoroughly afterwards;
- Dispose of soiled tissue paper properly in a lidded rubbish bin;
- Put on a surgical mask when respiratory symptoms develop;
- Maintain good indoor ventilation;
- Avoid going to crowded or poorly ventilated public places; high-risk individuals may consider putting on surgical masks when staying in such places; and
- Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, take adequate rest, do not smoke and avoid overstress.
Members of the public, particularly children, the elderly and those with chronic diseases, should wear a face mask and consult a doctor promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.
Ends/Friday, October 12, 2018
Issued at HKT 17:00
Issued at HKT 17:00
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