Quick tests are conducted at all hospitals on community-acquired pneumonia cases for early detection for any possible SARS infection, and tests on several United Christian Hospital patients with pneumonia symptoms have been confirmed SARS-free.

Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr Yeoh Eng-kiong said on a radio show today that Hong Kong is in the peak flu season, and urged people to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene. They should wash hands always and wear facemasks when visiting hospitals.

Dr Yeoh said the Department of Health will issue guidelines to the media to advise them on precautionary measures after three television crewmembers contracted respiratory infections when working in Guangzhou recently.

Anti-SARS measures will also be stepped up in the coming weeks with the increasing number of cross-boundary travellers during the Lunar New Year holidays.