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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (April 15) confirmed a case of Enterovirus-71 (EV-71) infection involving a two-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 boy developed fever and oral ulcers on April 8 and had rash on his arms and legs on the second day. He was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on April 12 and was discharged on April 14.
Laboratory results on his samples today confirmed EV-71 infection.
CHP's investigation revealed that the boy had travelled to the Mainland from April 4 to 6 during the incubation period. His 13-year-old brother also developed a rash today. Further investigation is on-going.
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 fourth 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/Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:20
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