The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (January 9) investigating two influenza A outbreaks at a residential care home for persons with disabilities (RCHD) in Tuen Mun and a primary school in Kowloon City, and again reminded the public to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene against influenza.
The outbreak at the RCHD involves 21 male residents aged 44 to 70 and one female staff member. They have developed fever, cough and sore throat since December 27. All sought medical attention. Among them, 11 required hospitalisation and eight of them were discharged following treatment. All patients are in a stable condition.
The respiratory specimens of eight residents tested positive for influenza A virus upon laboratory testing.
Separately, the outbreak at the primary school involves eight boys and 12 girls, aged 7 to 10, who have developed fever, cough and sore throat since January 2. All of them sought medical attention but none required hospitalisation. All patients are in a stable condition.
The respiratory specimen of one affected student tested positive for influenza A virus upon laboratory testing.
Officers of the CHP have conducted site visits to the RCHD and the primary school and advised them to adopt necessary infection control measures against respiratory infections. They have been put under medical surveillance.
"Hong Kong has entered the 2018-19 winter influenza season. We anticipate that local seasonal influenza activity will continue to rise in the coming weeks and remain at an elevated level for some time. Members of the public should remain vigilant for protection against influenza," a spokesman for the CHP said.
"Particularly, children, people aged 50 to 64 years, the elderly and those with underlying illnesses who have not yet received influenza vaccination this season are urged to get vaccinated as early as possible to prevent seasonal influenza as it takes about two weeks for antibodies to develop in the body after vaccination. They should promptly seek medical advice if influenza-like symptoms develop so that appropriate treatment can be initiated as early as possible to prevent potential complications. Parents and carers are reminded to render assistance in prevention, care and control for vulnerable people," the spokesman added.
Besides receiving seasonal influenza vaccination as early as possible for personal protection, the public should maintain good personal and environmental hygiene for protection against influenza and other respiratory illnesses. For more information, please visit the CHP's influenza page and weekly Flu Express.
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