CHP investigates outbreaks of upper respiratory tract infection at two schools
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The outbreak at the primary school in Kowloon Tong involves 22 students, comprising nine males and 13 females aged 5 to 7. They developed symptoms since March 4. Seven of them sought medical attention and none required hospitalisation. All are in stable condition with negative COVID-19 rapid antigen test results.
The outbreak at the kindergarten in North District involves 21 students, comprising 16 males and five females aged 3 to 5. They developed symptoms since February 28. Twelve of them sought medical attention and none required hospitalisation. All are in stable condition with negative COVID-19 rapid antigen test results.
The CHP has provided preventive advice against URTI to the primary school and the kindergarten, such as advising the schools to arrange cleaning and disinfection, to open windows where appropriate for better ventilation and to separate affected students from other students, etc. The schools have been placed under medical surveillance.
The public should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene against influenza and other respiratory illnesses 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;
- Wear a surgical mask when taking public transport or staying in crowded places. 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.
Members of 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/Thursday, March 9, 2023
Issued at HKT 16:48
Issued at HKT 16:48
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