The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (April 17) investigating an influenza B outbreak at a primary school in Chai Wan, and again reminded the public to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene against influenza.

     The outbreak involves 23 girls aged nine to 12 who developed fever, cough and sore throat since April 9. All sought medical attention and none required hospitalisation. All are in a stable condition. The respiratory specimens of two students tested positive for influenza B upon laboratory testing.

     Officers of the CHP have conducted a site visit and advised the school to adopt infection control measures against respiratory tract infections. The school has been placed under medical surveillance.

     A spokesman for the CHP said, "To prevent outbreaks of influenza and other respiratory infections, it is of prime importance that students 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.

     "Although the winter influenza season has ended, members of the public aged six months or above (except those with known contraindications) who have not yet received a seasonal influenza vaccination in the 2018-19 season can still receive it for personal protection against seasonal influenza," the spokesman said.

     "Meanwhile, the public should continue to adopt strict personal, hand and environmental hygiene practices against respiratory illnesses and other infectious diseases," the spokesman added.

     The public may visit the CHP's influenza page and weekly Flu Express for more information.

Ends/Wednesday, April 17, 2019
Issued at HKT 18:00

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