Chief Executive John Lee has called for efforts in stepping up mental health support for people affected by the deadly blaze in Tai Po, saying the whole of Hong Kong is emanating grief and sadness in the aftermath of the tragedy that claimed 159 lives.

"I have requested for mental health support work to be carried out... to assist victims of the fire as well as others who were affected, including students, teachers and those living nearby," Lee said as he inspected services offered by a government mental health support hotline and frontline staff at a community centre in Yau Ma Tei.

"It is necessary to sort out feelings of being uneasy and anxious. While we commemorate the deceased, we also hope to help those alive to overcome hard times."

Lee also pledged to discuss ways to support those affected by the Wang Fuk Court blaze with lawmakers at the first Legislative Council meeting following Sunday's election.

Health secretary Lo Chung-mau said the conditions of 19 patients who were previously listed as critical have stabilised.

Of a total of 79 patients who received hospital treatment, six are in serious condition and 24 in stable condition, and 49 have been discharged.

Lo said many of those injured were suffering emotional distress and trauma, with 47 receiving consultations and treatment from clinical psychologists.

Some expressed feelings of guilt or suffered from insomnia, he added.

Executive councillor and chairman of the Advisory Committee on Mental Health, Lam Ching-choi, said one way to strengthen support is to match bereaved families with counselling organisations, doctors and clinical psychologists to "accompany them through the toughest times".

"Members of the public, especially nearby residents... may face post-traumatic stress disorder. We will discuss our response measures and ways to strengthen training and service," Lam said.

Meanwhile, on the setting up of an independent committee investigating the fire, Lee said he's now in the process of looking for a judge to head the body after speaking to Chief Justice Andrew Cheung.

Work to uncover the truth should be completed as soon as possible for reforms to happen and plug existing loopholes, the CE added.