The Centre for Health Protection has received two new reports of children being admitted to hospital with suspected influenza-related complications, bringing the total to 27.

The cases involve a one-year-old girl and a two-year-old boy. The girl was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital on March 25 and is now in serious condition, while the boy was admitted to Kwong Wah Hospital on March 29 and is stable. Preliminary tests for the girl were negative for flu.

The number of cases with laboratory evidence of flu infection is 10. Eight patients have been discharged.

For the remaining 17 cases, preliminary tests on 16 patients returned negative flu results. Results are pending in the remaining case.

The Education Bureau reminds parents to check their children's body temperature and to bring the signed temperature chart to school when classes resume on March 31.

The bureau also asked parents to keep children at home if they have flu symptoms. Students should stay at home if they have a fever.

Parents should inform the school immediately if their children have been admitted to hospital. They should also pick their children up for immediate medical care if they fall ill in class.

Schools are urged to maintain environmental hygiene, ensure good ventilation, observe the health of students and staff recovering from flu, and keep sick-leave records.

If students are absent due to sickness, schools should provide support to keep track of their learning progress.

For flu updates and prevention tips, click here.