InfluenzaTypeBhits13Shenzheners

From: Shenzhen Daily

Updated: 2008-03-14 00:03

THERE was no sign of a widespread flu outbreak in Shenzhen and panic was unnecessary, although neighboring Hong Kong has reported the deaths of four children from flu, Shenzhen"s health watchdog said at a press conference Thursday.

Thirteen Shenzhen residents have come down with influenza Type B, which is different from Hong Kong"s Type A, which is more infectious and deadly, the Shenzhen Center for Disease Prevention and Control said.

"We will strengthen monitoring and keep an eye on the situation in Hong Kong and other Delta cities," said Ma Hanwu, vice chief of the center. "There is no need to raise an alarm."

Shenzhen reported 20 outbreaks of various flu viruses to March 9, involving 319 people, according to the center. The city"s hospitals treated 15,870 patients suffering respiratory diseases from January to March this year, 20 percent more than last year, Ma said.

Hong Kong closed all primary schools, special schools, nurseries and kindergartens for two weeks from Thursday.

The closures came after it was revealed a 21-month-old baby died late last month and a 3-year-old boy was moved to intensive care Wednesday suffering from severe flu symptoms. This follows the deaths of a 3-year-old girl, 27-month-old boy and a 7-year-old boy who suffered from flu-like symptoms. An expert committee is investigating the cause of the three most recent deaths.

The flu has affected 23 schools involving 184 people in the SAR.

In Guangzhou, eight schools reported flu outbreaks and in a primary school in Haizhu District, 30 students came down with influenza Type B.

Flu patients may show symptoms of fever, aches, chills and tiredness.

The virus can spread through the air and the incubation period is from several hours to four days.

Shenzhen Daily