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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 6) called on members of the public to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD).
The appeal was made in view of a recent increase in HFMD activity in the community was noted in the CHP¨s surveillance systems.
"The weekly consultation rates of HFMD at private doctors demonstrated a rising trend in the past four weeks from 0.7 per 1 000 consultations (April 2 to 8) to 1.8 per 1 000 consultations (April 23 to 29)," a CHP spokesman said.
Noting that HFMD occurred throughout the year and there is seasonal trend with more cases occurring between May and July, the spokesman said letters were sent to child care centres, kindergartens, and primary schools in March to remind the managements concerned to take precautionary measures.
"Another letter with health advice will be issued in view of the recent increase," he added.
To prevent HFMD, members of the public should observe the following measures:
，Maintain good circulation;
，Wash hands before eating and after going to toilets and changing diapers;
，Never share personal items such as towels and eating utensils;
，Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, furniture, and toilets regularly with diluted household bleach of 1:99 concentration (1 part bleach to 99 parts water);
，Clean toys/places which are contaminated by secretions or excreta with diluted household bleach of 1:49 concentration (1 part bleach to 49 parts water);
，Parents should seek medical advice if their children develop HFMD symptoms;
，Children suffering from HFMD should stay at home and avoid contacting other children until the illness is over.
For more advice on prevention of HFMD, members of the public may visit CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Unit hotline 2833 0111.
Ends/Saturday, May 6, 2006
Issued at HKT 14:01
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