Hong Kong, CHP investigates upper respiratory infection outbreak at kindergarten (September 21 2012)

[Giuseppe]

[Source: Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong PRC SAR, full text: (LINK).]

CHP investigates upper respiratory infection outbreak at kindergarten


The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating an outbreak of upper respiratory tract infection affecting 21 pupils at a kindergarten cum child care centre in Sha Tin.

The affected pupils, aged between 2 and 5 and comprising 17 males and four females, developed symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection including fever, runny nose, cough and sore throat since September 7.

One of the affected pupils was admitted to hospital for medical treatment and has already been discharged.

All the 21 affected pupils are in stable condition.

Staff of the CHP conducted a site visit and provided health advice to the kindergarten, which was put under medical surveillance.

To prevent URI and influenza, the public are advised to adopt the following measures:

• Build up good body immunity by having a balanced diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
• Maintain good personal and environmental hygiene, and wash hands after sneezing, coughing and cleaning the nose. Wear a mask when developing symptoms of respiratory infection;
• Maintain good ventilation; and
• Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation, especially during peak influenza season.

Members of the public, particularly children, elderly people and those with chronic diseases, should wear face masks and consult their doctors for medical advice promptly if they develop symptoms of URI infection.

For more information on the disease, members of the public may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).


Ends/Friday, September 21, 2012
Issued at HKT 16:09
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