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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (November 3) confirmed a case of Enterovirus-71 (EV-71), a viral infection usually found among young children, and urged the public to guard against the disease.
A CHP spokesman said an 18-month-old boy developed symptoms of diarrhoea and cough on October 25 and was admitted to Hong Kong Sanatorium Hospital on the same day. He has recovered and was discharged on November 1.
The boy has no recent travel history, and his home contacts are asymptomatic. CHP is contacting the childcare centres he attends for medical surveillance.
The spokesman said as the disease was transmitted by direct contact with nose and throat discharges, 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 the toilet and changing diapers;
* 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 gone.
For more information, visit the CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Hotline 2833 0111.
Cumulative total of EV-71 cases in 2006: 15
* imported: 0
* local: 13 (including today's case)
* 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.
Ends/Friday, November 3, 2006
Issued at HKT 18:17
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