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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (April 24) confirmed a case of Enterovirus-71 (EV-71) infection involving a three-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 child arrived in HK on April 17. He developed fever, cough, vomiting and vesicular rashes over palms, soles and mouth on April 19 and was admitted to Kwong Wah Hospital on April 21. He was discharged and returned to the Mainland today.
Laboratory result of his stool specimen today confirmed EV71 infection. CHP's investigation is on-going.
This is the seventh case of EV-71 infection reported to CHP this year. There were 35, 8, 16 and 12 cases in the years 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively.
A CHP spokesman said that May to August is 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/Thursday, April 24, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:48
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