February 23, 2013
Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for Food and
Health, Dr Ko Wing-man, after attending a public function this afternoon
(February 23):
Secretary for Food and Health: I would like to
mention here that yesterday a patient was admitted into a public
hospital with fever and symptoms of upper respiratory infection. The
patient also has a history of travel to the Middle East. Therefore, our
frontline staff's alertness was heightened. The case was reported to the
Centre for Health Protection this morning. At the same time, the
hospital staff have obtained specimen from the patient to conduct a
rapid test. Up to this stage, the report showed that the specimen tested
positive for influenza B, but negative for Novel Coronavirus. We are
still observing the patient. If necessary, we will repeat the test.
However, up to this moment, the patient's specimen tested negative for
Novel Coronavirus. I would like to reassure the public that the
Government will be as transparent as possible. Whenever there is a
suspected case, particularly patients with travel history to the Middle
East that need to perform the rapid test, we will release information to
the public as soon as possible.
Reporter: (On rumours of new Severe Respiratory Disease associated with Novel Coronavirus)
Secretary
for Food and Health: We noticed that there were at least two incidents
where rumours were subsequently proven untrue. These rumours will not
affect the health care system. We will remain vigilant. However,
spreading of such rumours is unhealthy. The public's attention may be
diverted if there are too many untrue reports spreading around. It is
important to have trust in the Government that it will be as transparent
as possible. Thank you.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Ends/Saturday, February 23, 2013
Issued at HKT 20:16
http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/201302/23/P201302230523.htm
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