Forty six patients of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) were discharged from hospitals in Hong Kong Saturday, according to the Department of Health and the Hospital Authority.

As at 1300 Saturday, an additional 49 patients with symptoms of SARS were admitted to public hospitals, including three healthcare workers, 11 patients from Amoy Gardens and 35 new patients and contacts of patients with SARS, they said.

So far, a total of 215 patients have recovered from ASRS and have been discharged from public hospitals.

Most of the patients currently in hospital are showing positive responses to the new treatment protocol. One hundred and twenty patients are receiving treatment in intensive care unit.

Three patients died in Princess Margaret Hospital last night and early this morning, bring to 35 the total number of deaths relating to SARS.

Most of the deaths occurred in individuals who have a history of chronic diseases, or were patients who sought treatment at a relatively late stage of infection, according to the health department.

(Xinhua News Agency April 12, 2003)