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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 21) confirmed a case of Enterovirus-71 (EV-71) infection involving a 3-year-old boy and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.
The child developed fever, sore throat, and rash over his hands on May 17. He consulted General Outpatient Clinic on May 19. Both throat and stool samples collected at the clinic were today confirmed to be positive for EV71.
There are 25 cases of EV-71 infection reported to CHP so far this year. There were 35, 8, 16 and 12 cases in 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/Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:31
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