The Department of Health and the Hospital Authority is following up an influenza-like illness at a hostel in Hong Kong.

Sixteen residents, one family member and a hostel staff member were taken to Princess Margaret Hospital between July 20 to July 24 for a physical examination, observation and treatment.

All the patients are in stable condition now. To date, laboratory tests for SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) have all been negative.

Health department staff have inspected the hostel, screened other residents and staff there and given health advice.

An investigation by the health department and the Hospital Authority is continuing.

The health department advised the public to take hygiene precautions against influenza and other respiratory illnesses.

The department's surveillance system showed that influenza activity in the community has picked up since June.

(Xinhua News Agency   July 25, 2003)