The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 25) confirmed a case of Enterovirus-71 (EV-71) infection (hand, foot and mouth disease) and urged the public to guard against the disease.

Details of the case are as follows:

Age: 16
Sex: Male
Date of onset: May 20
Symptoms: Vesicles over hands and feet
Present condition: Stable without hospitalisation.  
Travel history: No recent travel history
Others: His home contacts were asymptomatic. The department is contacting his school. Health advice will be offered to the school.

Cumulative total of EV-71 cases in 2006: 3
* imported: 0
* local: 1
* To be classified: 2

Total number of EV 71 cases in recent years: 60 in 1998, 22 in 1999, 6 in 2000, 30 in 2001, 5 in 2002, 1 in 2003, 35 in 2004 and 8 in 2005.

     A CHP spokesman said it was essential that the public stay alert to the threat of EV-71 infection and take the following preventive measures:

* Wash hands before eating and after going to toilet and changing nappies;
* Cover mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing;
* Maintain good ventilation;
* Clean thoroughly toys or appliances that are contaminated by nasal or oral secretions.

     Parents should seek medical advice if their children develop symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease.

     Children suffering from the infection should stay at home and avoid contacting other children until the illness is over.

     For more information, members of the public may visit the CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Hotline 2833 0111.

Ends/Thursday, May 25, 2006
Issued at HKT 19:33

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