Cluster of Influenza A cases in Prince of Wales Hospital

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
 
     The spokesman for the Prince of Wales Hospital (PWH) made the following announcement today (October 7):

     Nine patients (aged 52 to 104) in a male surgical ward of the PWH have presented with symptoms of fever since September 28. Appropriate tests had been arranged for the patients and their test results were positive to Influenza A. Two of the patients were discharged upon recovery while the other seven are being treated under isolation. One of them is in serious condition due to his underlying disease while the remaining six patients are in stable condition.

     Infection control measures have already been enhanced according to established guidelines. The hospital will continue to closely monitor the conditions of the patients in the ward concerned.

     The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.