CHP appeals for heightened vigilance against respiratory syncytial virus
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According to the test results by the DH's Public Health Laboratory Services Branch, in the week between December 11 and 17, 66 specimens tested positive for RSV (compared with 33 and 46 in the preceding two weeks). The number of institutional outbreaks related to RSV remained low (only two recorded in December so far).
In view of recent increase in related infection cases, the CHP today issued letters to schools to appeal for heightened vigilance.
A spokesman for the CHP said, "RSV mainly causes infections of the airway, lungs or middle ear. It is a common virus causing bronchiolitis and chest infection among infants and young children. Patients usually develop fever and other symptoms such as chills, headache, decreased appetite, body ache or weakness."
RSV can be transmitted by direct contact with infectious secretions, by droplet spread, or indirectly through contaminated hands, eating utensils or articles freshly soiled by nasal discharge of an infected person. Members of the public should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene against RSV and other respiratory illnesses such as influenza and note the following:
- Receive seasonal influenza vaccination for personal protection;
- Surgical masks can prevent transmission of respiratory viruses from ill persons. It is essential for persons who are symptomatic (even if having mild symptoms) to wear a surgical mask. It is important to wear a mask properly, including performing hand hygiene before wearing and after removing a mask;
- Avoid touching one's eyes, mouth and nose;
- 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;
- Cover the nose and mouth with tissue paper when sneezing or coughing. Dispose of soiled tissue paper properly into a lidded rubbish bin, and wash hands thoroughly afterwards;
- Maintain good indoor ventilation;
- When having respiratory symptoms, wear a surgical mask, refrain from work or attending classes at school, avoid going to crowded places and seek medical advice promptly; and
- Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, take adequate rest, do not smoke and avoid overstress.
"Symptoms of respiratory infections, including influenza and COVID-19, could be similar. It could be difficult to differentiate them clinically. Therefore, members of the public should get vaccinated as soon as possible as it is crucial in coping with the COVID-19 epidemic. Testing for COVID-19 early to facilitate early case detection also plays a vital role," the spokesman added.
The public, particularly children, the elderly and those with chronic diseases, should consult a doctor promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory tract infection.
Ends/Friday, December 23, 2022
Issued at HKT 14:00
Issued at HKT 14:00
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