Cluster of Influenza A cases in Kowloon Central Cluster

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     The spokesperson for Kowloon Central Cluster made the following announcement today (January 16):
 
     Three patients (aged 27 to 59) in a male Psychiatric ward in Kowloon Hospital presented with upper respiratory tract infection symptoms since January 13. Clinical tests were arranged and the test results were positive for Influenza A. The patients concerned are being treated under isolation with stable condition.
 
     Admission and visiting have been suspended in the ward concerned. Infection control measures have already been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the ward are under close surveillance.
 
     In addition, three patients (two male and one female, aged 43 to 69) in a Medicine and Geriatrics ward in Kwong Wah Hospital presented with fever and respiratory symptoms since January 8. Clinical tests were arranged and the test results were positive for Influenza A. The patients concerned are being treated under isolation. Two patients are in stable condition, while the other patient is in critical condition due to underlying illness.
 
     Infection control measures have already been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the ward are under close surveillance.
 
     The above cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.