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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (September 3) reminded members of the public to be vigilant against Enterovirus-71 (EV71) infection following confirmation of one EV71 case involving a 24-year-old woman.
The woman developed oral ulcer and rash over her hands and feet on August 23 while travelling on the Mainland. She came back to Hong Kong on August 25 and was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on August 28. She was discharged on September 1.
Laboratory results of her stool specimens yielded positive results for EV71.
Thw CHP's investigation revealed that she visited the Mainland with three relatives between August 2 and 25. One of the companions, a 14-year-old girl, developed symptoms of Hand Foot Mouth Disease on August 28 and had recovered.
A total of 82 EV71 infection cases have been reported to CHP so far this year. There were 35, eight, 16 and 12 cases in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively.
For more information, the public may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Hotline 2833 0111.
Ends/Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:16
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