In view of the recent emergence of A/H1N1 influenza worldwide, a spokesman of Hong Kong Department of Health (DH) urged smokers Monday to quit the habit, one of the best preventive measures against influenza.

"Research studies show a higher risk of influenza infections among smokers when compared with non-smokers," he said.

"Also, the mortality rate of influenza among smokers is higher than that of non-smokers," said the spokesman.

Adopting healthy lifestyles and maintaining good personal hygiene are also effective measures to prevent influenza, he added.

Starting from May 27, the DH will launch a series of smoking cessation roving exhibitions in various districts to strengthen public awareness of the harmful effects of smoking and enhance their knowledge of how to quit smoking.

Visitors to the roving exhibition will get a better understanding of the perils of smoking and second-hand smoke, effective ways to quit smoking as well as tips and available channels for quitting smoking.

(Xinhua News Agency May 26, 2009)