Flu situation is stable but should not be neglected, Tam says

Alexis Tam

The Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture Alexis Tam said that the recent flu epidemic in the region is stable and does not require the implementation of more dramatic measures.
Nevertheless, the Secretary also stressed, “as we continue at the peak of the influence of the disease, it should not be neglected,” calling on the population to maintain observing personal hygiene practices and to be attentive to information released by the Health Bureau (SSM).

Speaking to the media during the CNY holydays, Tam said that SSM has acquired a total of 165,000 flu vaccines and mentioned the work that the SSM has done in terms of raising awareness, which in his opinion caused “very positive results.” This is particularly regarding school visits and home visits to assist residents, students and seniors in the administration of the flu vaccines.

The Secretary also noted that a temperature drop expected to happen later this week might herald a new wave of flu, and called on residents to keep alert.
Questioned by the media about a wall on the building that hosts “Cinematheque Passion” that was defaced with a painting, Tam expressed his sorrow for the incident and promised to follow closely the developments of the case.  He raised the possibility that the government will increase penalties for this type of offence, noting the importance of strengthening civic education. Such education would encourage the population not to paint on monuments or buildings with historical value and warn that such acts violate the Cultural Heritage Law and other current laws. He finished by reaffirming the will of the government to chase and prosecute offenders involved with such serious crimes.