Seven patients on a female ward in Siu Lam Hospital have developed fever and respiratory symptoms, the Hospital Authority says.

Aged 29 to 58, the patients are now in a stable condition. One of the patients is asymptomatic while the other six have been transferred to Tuen Mun Hospital and are being treated in isolation.

The influenza A and B test results of four patients were negative while the results for the other three patients are still pending.

Infection control measures on the ward concerned have been stepped up. Admission to and discharge from the ward have been suspended, while the visiting policy remains normal.

Patients' relatives have been informed about the situation. All other patients and staff in the ward are under close surveillance.

The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority and the Centre for Health Protection.