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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 7) confirmed a case of Enterovirus-71 (EV-71) infection involving a seven-year-old boy and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.
The boy lives in Shenzhen. He developed rash over his hands and feet on May 3 and consulted doctor in Shenzhen. He travelled to Hong Kong on May 5, attended the Accident and Emergency Department of Prince of Wales Hospital and was later transferred to Princess Margaret Hospital. He was discharged yesterday.
Laboratory result of his stool specimen confirmed EV71 infection. CHP's investigation is on-going.
There are 13 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 7, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:15
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