The outbreak of a mystery flu has boosted business for one man, but for others it has brought only anger and confusion.
Outside the emergency unit at the Prince of Wales Hospital, a salesman handed out fliers promoting his company's air purifiers.
'Atypical pneumonia - Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Vietnam already plagued. Use Bionaire air-purifiers to lower the risk of infection,' the Chinese-language flier read.
'Special offer as low as $441, effective until 28th of April - but date may be extended as long as the flu attack continues.'
Sam Au, 50, said he had distributed 300 fliers in three hours.
'This is only the first day. It was my boss' idea. He thought of it when the atypical pneumonia was first reported. 'We are desperate for business and have received some enquiries. We will continue doing this for a couple more days,' said Mr Au, who did not say how many units he sold.
He was selling three models of air-purifiers priced between $588 and $1,288. Hospital staff and patients got a 25 per cent reduction.
