Cause of Hong Kong Outbreak Identified
Posted on: Friday, 19 November 2004, 18:00 CST
Chinese officials said Friday the cause of a mysterious respiratory disease outbreak in Hong Kong appears to be the parainfluenza virus.
Three of seven samples taken from patients tested positive for the virus but negative for other respiratory diseases, the Department of Health said.
A total of 32 children from four to 17 years at the Caritas Medical Center are thought to be involved in the outbreak. They suffered from respiratory disease and two still have a fever, the Department of Health said.
Infection with parainfluenza virus is common. The concern is severe complications could occur in young children and patients with immunodeficiencies.
The virus can be spread by respiratory secretions emitted from coughs or sneezes, but a spokesman for the Department of Health said measures to prevent the spread of the disease at the Medical Center have already been implemented. These include handwashing and wearing of masks, gowns and gloves.
Source: United Press International
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