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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (June 25) confirmed a case of Enterovirus-71 (EV71) infection involving a three-year-old girl and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.
The girl developed fever, oral ulcers and rash over hands and feet on June 20 and consulted a private doctor on the same day and June 23. No hospitalization was required. Laboratory result of her specimens confirmed EV71 infection today.
CHP's investigation revealed that she had no travel history during the incubation period and her family members did not show any symptom.
Four other children of the nursery school she attended had similar symptoms between May 22 and June 14. CHP staff visited the school and provided health advice to the management. So far, no new case has been reported since the implementation of control measures at the nursery.
There are 57 cases of EV71 infection reported to CHP so far this year. There were 35, 8, 16 and 12 cases in the years 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively.
EV71 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, June 25, 2008
Issued at HKT 21:09
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