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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has confirmed a case of Enterovirus-71 (EV71) infection and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.
A spokesman for the CHP said today (July 4) the case affected a one-year-old boy who developed fever, oral ulcers and rash over hands and feet on June 23. He was admitted to Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital in Tai Po on June 27 and was discharged on June 30.
Laboratory tests on his sample collected earlier showed positive result to EV71.
The boy travelled to Shenzhen in mid-June. His family members did not have relevant symptoms.
There have been 70 cases of EV71 infection reported to CHP so far this year. There were 35, 8, 16 and 12 cases in 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 and 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/Friday, July 4, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:36
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