CHP investigates outbreak of upper respiratory tract infection at special school in Yuen Long

     The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (October 4) investigating an outbreak of upper respiratory tract infection (URI) at a special school in Yuen Long, and reminded members of the public to receive a seasonal influenza vaccination (SIV) as soon as possible for personal protection against seasonal influenza.

     The outbreak affected seven boys and 11 girls, aged six to 17, as well as two staff members, who have developed fever, cough and runny nose since September 19. Among them, 16 sought medical attention. Eleven of them required hospitalisation and one was discharged following treatment. All patients have been in a stable condition. The respiratory specimens of five students tested positive for parainfluenza virus type 2 upon laboratory testing.
 
     Officers of the CHP have conducted a site visit to the school and advised the school to adopt necessary infection control measures against respiratory tract infections. The school has been placed under medical surveillance.
 
     A spokesman for the CHP said, "To prevent outbreaks of influenza and other respiratory infections, it is of prime importance that students with fever, regardless of the presence of respiratory symptoms, should not be allowed to attend school. They should seek medical advice and avoid school till 48 hours after the fever has subsided. Schools should also measure and record students' body temperatures properly."

     Schools are reminded to follow the Guidelines on Prevention of Communicable Diseases on preventive and control measures as well as the management of outbreaks, which should be reported to the CHP for prompt follow-up.

     "While the overall local seasonal influenza activity was at a low level, members of the public aged 6 months or above (except those with known contraindications) are advised to receive an SIV as soon as possible for personal protection against seasonal influenza," the spokesman added.

     Besides receiving an SIV, the public should also maintain good personal and environmental hygiene against influenza and other respiratory illnesses.