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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (April 18) confirmed a case of Enterovirus-71 (EV-71) infection affecting a 13-year-old boy and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.
EV-71 is a viral infection usually found among young children. It is also one of the causative agents for hand-foot-mouth disease (HFMD).
The patient developed oral ulcers and rash over his hands and leg on April 14 but did not require hospitalisation. Laboratory tests on his samples yielded positive results for EV-71 infection.
His younger brother, aged two, was also confirmed to have EV-71 infection on April 15. Other family members did not have symptoms of EV-71 infection.
CHP's investigation revealed that the family had travelled to the Mainland from April 4 to 6.
A CHP spokesman said that as the infection was transmitted by direct contact with nose and throat discharges, people should be vigilant against the disease and observe the following preventive measures:
* Wash hands before eating and after going to the toilet and changing diapers;
* Cover mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing;
* Maintain good ventilation;
* Thoroughly clean toys or appliances which are contaminated by nasal or oral secretions.
Children suffering from the infection should stay at home and avoid contact with other children until they have recovered.
This is the fifth case of EV-71 infection reported to CHP this year. There were eight, 16 and 12 cases of EV-71 infections reported in 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively.
For more information, people may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Hotline 2833 0111.
Ends/Friday, April 18, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:23
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