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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 28) confirmed a case of Enterovirus-71 (EV-71) infection involving a four-year-old girl.
A CHP spokesman said that the girl developed vesicular rash over her hands and feet on May 26. She sought medical advice at the Accident and Emergency Department of Tuen Mun Hospital on the same day and no hospitalisation was required.
The laboratory result of her stool sample collected earlier confirmed EV-71 infection today.
The nursery she attended reported earlier that a total of four children, including the girl, had symptoms of hand-foot-mouth disease (HFMD). Staff of CHP have provided health advice to the institution.
Thirty-seven cases of EV-71 infection have been reported to CHP so far this year. There were 35, eight, 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 HFMD.
A CHP spokesman said that May to August was the usual peak season for HFMD and EV-71. 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 contact with other children until they have recovered.
For more information, people may visit the CHP's website www.chp.gov.hk or call the Central Health Education Hotline 2833 0111.
Ends/Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:10
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