HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)-MARCH 23+

[Treyfish]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Hong Kong children aged 2-6 may be a free influenza vaccine (1)

]​

At 15:55 on June 12, 2008



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</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top align=middle></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></CENTER> Data for: two children wearing masks in Hong Kong under the escort of the lead through the streets. Due to a number of schools students suffering from influenza and has three children died due to influenza, the Hong Kong primary schools, kindergartens, etc. Since March 13 will be closed for two weeks starting all, to prevent the epidemic from expanding.

中新社发王丽南摄​

China news agency, Wang Linan perturbation

June 12 - According to the Hong Kong Ta Kung Pao, Hong Kong Secretary for Health and Food York Chow said on the 11th, according to the Department of Health expert panel recommended the vaccine will be the beginning of the year, for 2-year-old to 6-year-old children vaccinated against Influenza vaccine, estimated to 300,000 people.

Dr Chow said next week on the proposed first phase is from 2 to 6-year-old children inoculated prevention of influenza vaccine to report to the Legislative CouncilDr Chow explained that the vaccination will not cover all children under age 12, because the child must first understand the side effects of the vaccine and then decide whether or not depends on the effectiveness of further expansion.

Dr Chow said: "The sudden increase may be too many side effects, complications of the figures is one of the considerations?? If the beginning of this year vaccinated, 2-6 overall after the age of side effects and complications of the disease rate is very low and affordable, We will further increase to other sectors. "

Dr Chow said, has yet to determine the details of the proposal, including whether the SAR Government to assume full or only partially funded. As for the vaccination, in addition to by the Department of Health or the Hospital Authority is responsible for, it is also possible with the cooperation of private doctors. As for the money, he said that unknown, because it depends on the purchase of the vaccine, but the cost involved is not big problem, I believe the SAR Government can afford.

In addition, the first phase of health care reform consultation concluded on Friday, Dr Chow said the society have different views on the various options, the SAR Government will integrate the first half of next year, the second consultation paper, would be to make more specific discussions. :tiphat: http://66.102.9.104/translate_c?hl=...ttp://news.sohu.com/20080612/n257453018.shtml

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Man with influenza symptoms reported to CHP
June 16 2008, 8.42.00

In response to media enquiries, a spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said that the centre today (June 16) received a report involving a 54-year-old man who presented with influenza symptoms.

The patient attended Caritas Medical Centre this morning for symptoms including fever and cough, and was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital for treatment.

The spokesman said the patient was a contract worker of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department responsible for cleaning work in Po On Road Market, Sham Shui Po, earlier.

Preliminary investigation of the patient by rapid tests for influenza yielded positive results for Influenza B.

Test results for Influenza H5 are pending.

The man's family members do not have influenza symptoms at the moment.

Further investigation by CHP is on-going.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/rss/general_en.xml
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Recommendations on influenza vaccination for 2008/09 announced
June 16 2008, 10.13.00

The Scientific Committee on Vaccine Preventable Diseases (SCVPD) under the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (June 16) released its recommendations for the coming 2008/09 influenza season, recommending nine categories of people to receive vaccination against influenza.

Apart from the target groups recommended last year, a CHP spokesman said the committee had expanded the recommendation to children aged from two to five years owing to their higher hospitalisation rate compared with the general population.

The nine recommended target groups for the coming influenza season are:

1) elderly persons living in residential care homes;

2) long-stay residents of institutions for the disabled;

3) elderly persons aged 65 years or above;

4) persons with chronic illnesses;

5) health care workers;

6) poultry workers;

7) children aged from six to 23 months;

8) pregnant women; and

9) children aged from two to five years.

Persons with chronic illness mainly refer to those who have chronic circulatory, lung, metabolic or renal diseases, those whose immune response are reduced or defective, and those with chronic neurological disorders that can compromise respiratory function or the handling of respiratory secretions or that can increase the risk for aspiration or those who lack the ability to care for themselves.

The SCVPD recommended vaccines to be used in the 2008/09 season (northern hemisphere winter) would comprise A/Brisbane/59/2007 (H1N1)-like virus, A/Brisbane/10/2007 (H3N2)-like virus and B/Florida/4/2006-like virus.

The Government is now studying the new SCVPD recommendations and is considering how best to encourage children aged from six months to five years to be vaccinated against influenza.

Concerning other target groups which were the same as last year's, the Government Influenza Vaccination Programme (GIVP) will continue to provide free vaccination to the following eligible groups for the 2008/09 flu season:

1) elderly persons living in residential care homes;

2) long-stay residents of institutions for the disabled;

3) elderly persons aged 65 years or above with chronic illness and being followed up in public clinics, as well as those aged 65 years or above receiving Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA);

4) persons under 65 years with chronic illness receiving CSSA, and some long-stay Hospital Authority (HA) in-patients who have chronic illness;

5) health care workers of the DH, HA and other government departments, as well as health care workers in elderly homes or institutions for the disabled;

6) poultry workers or staff who may be involved in poultry culling operations;

7) children aged from six to 23 months from families receiving CSSA; and

8) pregnant women receiving CSSA.

"The infrastructure under the GIVP will continue to provide free vaccination services to the eligible target groups through hospitals and clinics under the DH and HA. Details of the GIVP will be announced this summer," the CHP spokesman said.

Members of the public not included in the recommendations who wish to obtain influenza vaccine for their personal protection are advised to consult their private doctors, the spokesman said.

"The success of influenza vaccination requires collaboration between the public and private sectors," the spokesman said.

"In this regard, CHP will send letters to doctors to promulgate the recommendations, so that they can make estimations to order vaccines early to avoid vaccine shortage problems."

To prevent influenza and other respiratory tract infections, the spokesman advised members of the public to adopt a healthy lifestyle as well as adhere to good personal and environmental hygiene.

They should observe the following measures:
* build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
* maintain good personal hygiene, and wash hands after sneezing, coughing or cleaning the nose;
* maintain good ventilation;
* avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation; and
* wear a mask if having symptoms of respiratory infection.

The SCVPD recommendations can be accessed at CHP's website: www.chp.gov.hk.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/rss/general_en.xml
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[Gert van der Hoek]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

June 16, 2008

Surveillance

Cleaning worker tests negative for avian flu

A Food & Environmental Hygiene Department contract worker who fell ill after helping clean Po On Road Market after its recent avian influenza outbreak has tested negative for H5-influenza.

The Centre for Health Protection said the 54-year-old man was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital for treatment today after coming down with a fever and cough.

He has tested positive for influenza-B.

http://www.news.gov.hk/en/category/healthandcommunity/080616/txt/080616en05006.htm

 

[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Public reminded to be vigilant against upper respiratory tract infection
June 23 2008, 13.30.05

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (June 23) called on members of the public and management of institutions to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent upper respiratory tract infection (URI).

The appeal was made following CHP's investigation into two reports of URI outbreaks in a nursery school and a home for the elderly.

The first case affected 28 children aged between one and five in a nursery in Wong Tai Sin.

They developed symptoms of URI, including fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat between June 3 and 20.

Of them, a three-year-old boy was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital and was discharged.

Other affected children consulted general practitioners or out-patient clinics and are now in stable condition.

In the second case, 19 residents and two staff members aged between 40 and 97 were affected in an elderly home in Sham Shui Po.

They presented with URI symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat from June 13 to 21.

Two of them were admitted to Caritas Medical Centre while others consulted general practitioners or out-patient clinics. All of them are in stable condition.

Staff of the CHP have conducted field visit to these institutions and provided health instructions to their staff.

CHP will continue to closely monitor the institution.

To prevent upper respiratory tract infection and influenza, the public are advised to adopt the following measures:
* Build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking;
* Maintain good personal hygiene, wash hands after sneezing or coughing and wear a mask when developing symptoms of respiratory infections;
* 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 respiratory tract infection.

More information on the disease is available on the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/rss/general_en.xml
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

DH's response to reporting of a suspected TB case
June 30 2008, 14.42.20

In response to media enquiries concerning the reporting of a suspected tuberculosis (TB) case by a private hospital, a spokesman for the Department of Health (DH) today (June 30) reiterated that the department took a vigilant stand on this incident.

"A letter has been sent to the hospital reminding the management to look into its internal reporting procedures. The hospital gave a positive response in enhancing its reporting and workflow arrangement to ensure timely reporting," the spokesman said. He said that under the Quarantine and Prevention of Disease Ordinance, registered medical practitioners were obliged to report statutory notifiable diseases including (TB) to DH, whether it was suspected or confirmed.

"Timely notification is important for the effective control and prevention of infectious diseases.

"Positive finding of sputum test by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Mycobacterium TB constitutes sufficient suspicion to make a notification to DH," the spokesman said.

Regarding the case involving a 29-year-old woman, the spokesman said the culture for acid-fast bacilli (AFB) conducted by Queen Mary Hospital showed no growth of the TB bacterium after more than nine weeks and it was determined a negative test result.

DH will continue to liaise with health authorities in the United Kingdom, where the patient concerned passed away on April 24, to ascertain the culture results there.

Meanwhile, the two patients diagnosed with TB during contact tracing had received treatment and recovering well.

One of them was diagnosed to have active TB (non-open TB) and the other was diagnosed to have latent TB infection.

"Since the incubation period of TB is comparatively long, we consider it unlikely that their condition was related to the 29-year-old woman, whose diagnosis of TB is yet to be determined," the spokesman said.
http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200806/30/P200806300277.htm
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

No public health risk in HK after British woman dies from tuberculosis

By Channel NewsAsia's Roland Lim | Posted: 30 June 2008 1931 hrs

HONG KONG:

In Hong Kong, two people have been diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB) after being in contact with a British woman who died from the disease recently.

The city's health authority has managed to trace more than 300 people believed to have been in contact with her.

However, its infectious diseases unit does not believe the latest incident poses a public health risk.

29-year-old Clare Lennon, who taught at a Hong Kong primary school, was treated for persistent coughing at St Paul's Hospital between April 10 and 15.

Initial tests proved negative for tuberculosis (TB). She later took a plane back to England where she died on April 24.

Since then, Hong Kong's health department has traced all 328 people who had physical contact with her, mostly her students and colleagues at school and the passengers on the flight she had boarded.

Dr Thomas Tsang, Controller, Centre for Health Protection, said: "The two cases which we discovered on contact-tracing have been put on TB-treatment and they're doing fine and recovering very well.

"And I think now that the patient has already left Hong Kong and we have conducted a very thorough contact-tracing investigation, the risk in terms of that patient is no longer there."

St Paul's Hospital, which treated her, has come under fire for alerting the authorities ten days after she was found to have tested positive for TB.

This was a considerable delay from the time the hospital learnt about the test results.

British health authorities are still trying to ascertain the woman's cause of death.

Apart from TB, she had also been diagnosed with lymphoma, a cancer. It is also not known where she caught the TB from.

In the past two years, there has been an average of around 5,700 cases of TB in Hong Kong, out of a population of nearly seven million. - CNA/vm
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http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/eastasia/view/357332/1/.html
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Outbreak of respiratory tract infection in a child residential home
July 3 2008, 12.36.18

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating an outbreak of respiratory tract infection affecting 20 children of a childhood residential care home in Causeway Bay.

A CHP spokesman said today (July 3) that the affected children, comprising eight boys and 12 girls aged from six months to three years old, had developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough and sore throat, between June 18 and July 2.

Eleven children consulted private doctors or out-patient clinics while four of them were admitted to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital.

Respiratory samples of one of the hospitalised children yielded positive result to Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

CHP officials have conducted field visits to the hostel and provided health instructions to staff. An investigation is on-going.

The spokesman said that RSV was spread by direct contact with infectious secretions and can be easily transmitted among individuals in institutional settings.

"The incubation period is one to 10 days and is usually five to seven days. Common symptoms include fever, chills, headache and decreased appetite," he said.

To prevent respiratory tract infection caused by RSV, people are advised to take the following measures:
* Maintain good personal and environmental hygiene;
* Keep hands clean and wash hands properly;
* Wash hands when they are contaminated by respiratory secretions;
* Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly;
* Infected people should avoid contact with children or those with low body resistance.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200807/03/P200807030201.htm
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Vigilance against seasonal RSV urged
July 4 2008, 13.31.00

A spokesman for the Centre for Heath Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (July 4) reminded people, in particular parents and management of schools and institutions to take stringent infection control measures against respiratory tract infection caused by Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

The appeal was made in view of an increasing number of RSV detections in the past two weeks.

The spokesman said that the peak season for RSV in Hong Kong was usually between March and August.

"Our surveillance indicated that the RSV activity was on the increase," the spokesman said.

He said the baseline RSV detection was less than 20 per week. This year, Hong Kong experienced a brief upsurge in March with the highest detection of 70 in a week.

RSV detections in the past two weeks were again on the rising trend.

During the week ending June 28 there were 54 viral detections by the Public Health Laboratory Centre. Thirteen RSV outbreaks have been reported to the CHP so far this year, affecting a total of 214 people.

There were 13 and 30 RSV outbreaks recorded in 2006 and 2007 affecting 185 and 319 people respectively.

"RSV is a common cause of respiratory tract infection. It usually affects elderly people and young children at the age of five or below," the spokesman said.

The disease is spread by direct contact with infectious secretions and can be easily transmitted among individuals in institutional settings.

"The incubation period is one to 10 days and is usually five to seven days.

Common symptoms include fever, chills, headache and decreased appetite," he noted.

To prevent respiratory tract infection caused by RSV, people are advised to take the following measures:
* Maintain good personal and environmental hygiene;
* Keep hands clean and wash hands properly;
* Wash hands when they are contaminated by respiratory secretions;
* Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly;
* Infected persons should avoid contact with children or those with low body resistance.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200807/04/P200807040226.htm
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Public hospitals return to alert response level
July 9 2008, 10.58.00

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority: Following the government announcement today (July 9) on scaling down the response level for avian influenza from "serious" to "alert", public hospitals under the Hospital Authority (HA) will also revert to Alert Response Level.

Under the Alert Response Level, the following arrangements will be implemented in public hospitals and clinics:

* Visiting hours will be returned to not more than four hours per day and not more than two visitors per visit for all acute wards; and not more than six hours per day and not more than two visitors for all convalescent hospitals.

* Visitors and patients who have respiratory infection symptoms will need to wear surgical mask in public hospitals and clinics.

* All staff, patients and visitors are required to practise hand hygiene at all times.

* The HA laboratory network will return to normal operating hours.

* The triage assessment for fever patients with respiratory symptoms will continue at Accident & Emergency Departments and General Outpatient Clinics.

Posters and notices at public hospitals will be updated to remind the public the current arrangements.

The Hospital Authority will continue to closely liaise with the Centre for Health Protection to keep the public and professionals informed of the updated situation and relevant information.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200807/09/P200807090251.htm
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Outbreak of respiratory tract infection in a nursery school
July 15 2008, 12.30.01

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating an outbreak of respiratory tract infection affecting 17 children and four staff members of a nursery school in Ma On Shan.

A CHP spokesman said today (July 15) that the affected, comprising nine males and 12 females aged from two to 58 years old, had developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough, running nose and sore throat, between July 9 and 13.

Two were admitted to hospitals for treatment. Both are now in stable condition.

Respiratory samples of one of the hospitalised children yielded positive results for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

CHP officials have conducted a field visit to the school and provided health instructions to the school management.
Investigation is on-going.

The spokesman said that RSV is spread by direct contact with infectious secretions and can be easily transmitted among individuals in institutional settings.

"The incubation period is one to 10 days and is usually five to seven days. Common symptoms include fever, chills, headache and decreased appetite," he noted.

To prevent respiratory tract infection caused by RSV, members of the public are advised to take the following measures:
* Maintain good personal and environmental hygiene;
* Keep hands clean and wash hands properly;
* Wash hands when they are contaminated by respiratory secretions;
* Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharges properly;
* Infected persons should avoid contact with children or those with low body resistance.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/rss/general_en.xml
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Report under influenza surveillance arrangement
July 19 2008, 12.03.01

A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said a new report involving a six-year-old girl was received through the influenza surveillance arrangement set up by the CHP with private and public hospitals.

The girl developed fever and "dull looking" symptoms on July 16 and was admitted to United Christian Hospital on July 18.

Her fever is down now and is in stable condition.

Preliminary test result on her sample showed positive result to Influenza A.

The girl had no history of travel. Her family members did not have any similar symptoms and the kindergarten she attended did not have any report of outbreak of influenza-like illness.

The spokesman reminded members of the public to stay alert by taking precautionary measures against influenza.

They are advised to maintain good personal as well as environmental hygiene and build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise, and adequate rests, reducing stress and avoiding smoking.

More details of preventive tips on influenza are available in CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200807/19/P200807190190.htm
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Caritas Medical Centre updates fever and respiratory symptoms cases

July 23 2008, 13.14.04

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

Following the earlier announcement about nine residents in the Developmental Disabilities Unit (DDU) of Caritas Medical Centre (CMC) presenting with fever and respiratory symptoms, the hospital announced the following updates today (July 23):

-- One more boy (aged 10) and two staff members of the concerned unit have presented with fever and respiratory symptoms.

The boy is being isolated for treatment and in stable condition.

The staff members have recovered.

Since July 18, a total of 10 residents (five male and five female) and two staff members have presented with symptoms.

Presently four children are positive for Rhinovirus.

Other test results are pending.

Infection control measures on the concerned floor have already been enhanced.

There will be no new admissions while visiting arrangements remain unchanged.

All other residents in the unit are under close surveillance.

The case has been reported to the Hospital Authority and the Centre for Health Protection for follow-up.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200807/23/P200807230192.htm
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Grantham Hospital Influenza A cases

July 29 2008, 12.59.04

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

A spokesperson of Grantham Hospital today (July 29) announced that seven patients (aged from 38 to 83) of a male medical ward had presented with symptoms of influenza like illness since July 26.

The patients are being treated under isolation and in stable condition.

Viral test results of four patients are positive to Influenza A.

All other patients in the ward concerned are under close surveillance.

Admission and visiting to the ward have been suspended.

Infection control measures have already been reinforced, including thorough cleaning and disinfection.

The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200807/29/P200807290195.htm
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Grantham Hospital Influenza A cases

July 31 2008, 13.07.04

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

Following the earlier announcement on seven patients in a male medical ward of Grantham Hospital presenting with symptoms of influenza like illness, the hospital announced the following updates today (July 31):

Two more patients (aged 68 and 76 ) presented with fever and respiratory symptoms.

These two patients are being isolated for treatment and in stable condition.

Since July 26, nine patients have presented with the symptoms. All nine patients are tested positive to Influenza A virus.

All other patients in the ward concerned are under close surveillance.

Admission and visits to the ward have been suspended.

Infection control measures have already been reinforced.

Thorough cleaning and disinfection have been carried out in the ward.

The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow up.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200807/31/P200807310229.htm
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Report under paediatric surveillance programme

July 31 2008, 13.01.19

A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said today (July 31) that a new report involving a four-year-old girl was received through the paediatric surveillance programme set up by the CHP with private and public hospitals.

The girl presented with fever, cough and sore throat on July 28, had convulsions yesterday (July 30) and was admitted to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital the same day.

Oral lesions were detected.She is now in serious condition.

Laboratory results of her specimens are pending.

The girl had no history of travel.Her family members did not have any similar symptoms and the kindergarten she attended did not have any report of outbreak of Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease (HFMD).

The spokesman reminded people to stay alert by taking precautionary measures against HFMD, including:

* Wash hands before eating and after going to toilet and changing diapers;
* Cover mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing;
* Maintain good ventilation;
* Thoroughly clean toys or appliances which are contaminated by nasal or oral secretions.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200807/31/P200807310216.htm
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Boy with flu symptoms reported under paediatric surveillance programme

August 5 2008, 12.31.04

A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said today (August 5) that a new report involving a four-year-old boy was received through the paediatric surveillance programme set up by the CHP with private and public hospitals today.

The boy presented with fever, cough with sputum and runny nose on August 3 and was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital the next day.

He had convulsions on the same day and received intensive care treatment. He is currently in serious condition.

The preliminary test result on his sample showed positive results for Influenza A.

The boy had no history of travel.

His family members did not have any similar symptoms and the kindergarten he attended did not have any report of outbreak of influenza-like illness.

The spokesman reminded members of the public to stay alert by taking precautionary measures against influenza.

They are advised to maintain good personal as well as environmental hygiene and build up good body immunity by having a proper diet, regular exercise, and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking.

More details of preventive tips on influenza are available on CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200808/05/P200808050263.htm
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Update on Cheshire Home (Shatin) influenza cases

August 7 2008, 13.02.53

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

Following the earlier announcementabout six patients in an infirmary ward of Cheshire Home Shatin (SCH) presenting with symptoms of influenza like illness, the hospital announced the following update today (August 7):

Three more female patients (aged 72 to 89) have presented with fever and respiratory symptoms.The three patients are being isolated for treatment and in stable condition.

Since August 3, a total of nine patients have presented with the symptoms.

Seven of them tested positive for Influenza A.

In addition, five male patients (aged 48 to 84) from another infirmary ward have presented with symptoms of influenza-like illness since August 2.

They are being treated under isolation and all are in stable condition.

Appropriate tests were arranged for the patients.

Viral test results of the five patients are positive for Influenza A.

Admission and visits to the two wards have been suspended.

All patients in the wards concerned are under close surveillance.

Infection control measures have already been reinforced.

Thorough cleaning and disinfection have been carried out in the wards.

The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority and the Centre for Health Protection for follow up.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200808/07/P200808070265.htm
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

(1a) Two paediatric cases of Prince of Wales Hospital

August 13 2008, 14.16.22

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

In response to media enquiries on the two paediatric cases (9-year-old and 7-year-old girls) announced by Centre for Health Protection today (August 13), the spokesperson of Prince of Wales Hospital (PWH) gave the following reply:

The 9-year-old girl admitted to the Accident and Emergency Department at around 11pm on August 12 presenting with symptoms of myocarditis and was then transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU); the girl passed away at around 2am today.

The case will be referred to the Coroner. PWH expressed condolences to the family of the deceased patient.

The 7-year-old girl admitted to the Accident and Emergency Department on August 8 for fever and convulsions. She later developed symptoms of encephalitis. She is at present staying in PICU and her condition is serious.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200808/13/P200808130223.htm
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(1b) Reports under paediatric surveillance programme

August 13 2008, 12.31.18

A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said that two new reports were received today (August 13) through the paediatric surveillance programme set up by the CHP with private and public hospitals, involving two girls aged nine and seven.

In the first case, the nine-year-old girl had fever and vomiting and was admitted to Prince of Wales Hospital (PWH) on August 12 to receive intensive care treatment. She passed away this morning. The girl had no recent travel history. The case has been submitted to Coroner's Court for further investigation.

The 7-year-old girl was admitted to PWH on August 8 with fever and convulsions. She later developed symptoms of encephalitis and is now in serious condition.

Preliminary tests on her specimens showed negative results to influenza or enterovirus.

The girl had no history of travel and her family members did not have any similar symptoms. CHP's investigation on this case is on-going.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200808/13/P200808130200.htm
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[Giuseppe]

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

Re: _|HONG KONG, Gov Rpts - SAR, INFLUENZA-LIKE ILLNESS AND ARI UPDATE(S)|_|MARCH 23+|

(1a) Kwong Wah Hospital paediatric case

August 14 2008, 13.25.01

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

In response to media enquiries on the paediatric case (3-year-old girl) announced by the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) today (August 14), a spokesperson of Kwong Wah Hospital (KWH) gave the following reply:

The 3-year-old girl was admitted via Accident and Emergency Department at around 8pm on August 10 with symptoms of upper respiratory infection, fever and vomiting and was then transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit.

She developed shock, convulsion and Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation later. The girl passed away at 2pm on August 11.

The case was referred to the Coroner. KWH expressed condolences to the family of the deceased patient.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200808/14/P200808140195.htm
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(1b) CHP continuing investigations on reported child illnesses

August 14 2008, 13.23.29

A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said today (August 14) that CHP was continuing investigations into the reported illnesses of two children yesterday.

One child died possibly from myocarditis while the other, with an encephalitis-like illness, was being treated in hospital.

The spokesman said ongoing investigations showed that the two children had different clinical pictures.

They had no previous contact with one another and no common epidemiological link was evident.

At the moment, their illnesses appeared unrelated to one another and they may have arisen from one or different agents, he said.

The spokesman said examination of previous data from death certificates (2004-06) showed that on average, 15 to 20 children aged 9 or below died in Hong Kong each year from probable infective causes.

He said, "The more common manifestations include myocarditis, encephalitis, pneumonia and septicemia.

"According to international experience, the etiological agent in many cases of encephalitis and myocarditis cannot be identified."

The spokesman said a new child case was reported today (August 14) through the paediatric surveillance programme set up by the CHP with private and public hospitals.

It is a retrospective case involving a three-year-old Pakistani girl living in Sham Shui Po district (different from the two reported cases yesterday).

The girl was admitted to Kwong Wah Hospital with fever and vomiting on August 10 and received intensive care treatment. She passed away the next day with suspicion of septicemia. Laboratory results on her specimens are pending. The girl had no history of travel and her family members did not have any similar symptoms. The case has been submitted to Coroner's Court for further investigation.

The paediatric surveillance programme was set up by the CHP with private and public hospitals to detect severe complications that were suspected to be related to hand-foot-mouth disease, influenza and possibly other infections.

CHP is carrying on investigations of the cases.Further cases are expected to be captured by the paediatric surveillance programme from time to time and CHP will keep monitoring the reports on an ongoing basis.
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http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200808/14/P200808140203.htm
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