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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 6) confirmed two cases of Enterovirus-71 (EV-71) infection involving a one-year-old girl and a two-year-old boy and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.
The girl, who arrived in Hong Kong on April 25, developed fever and rash over her hands and feet on April 27. She was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital on May 1 and was discharged yesterday.
Laboratory result of her stool specimen today confirmed EV71 infection. Preliminary investigation revealed that the girl lived with her parents on the Mainland. CHP's investigation is on-going.
The boy developed symptoms of fever, cough and running nose on April 28 and had vesicular lesions on his mouth on April 30. He was admitted to a private hospital on May 1 and was discharged today.
Laboratory result of his stool sample confirmed EV71 infection. Preliminary investigation revealed that the boy had travelled to the Mainland between April 23 and 27.
There are 12 cases of EV-71 infection reported to CHP so far this year. There were 35, 8, 16 and 12 cases in the years 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively.
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).
A CHP spokesman said that May to August was the usual peak season for HFMD and EV71. The infection is 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 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 contacting other children until they have recovered.
For more information, people may visit the CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Hotline 2833 0111.
Ends/Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:08
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