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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (June 8) received the laboratory test result of a case of neurological complication suspected to be due to enterovirus (EV) infection.
The patient, previously confirmed to have EV infection with meningitis complication, is a 23-year-old male student admitted to Kwong Wah Hospital. His rectal swab specimen tested positive for Echovirus type 9.
He has recovered and was discharged from hospital last Saturday. Results from sampling of his home contacts were all negative.
Echovirus is a type of EV and can also cause hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD). Complications, which are rare, include meningitis and encephalitis.
The spokesman reminded the public to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene during the current HFMD outbreaks and to adopt the following preventive measures:
* Maintain good air circulation;
* Wash hands before meals and after going to the toilet, handling diapers or other stool soiled materials;
* Keep hands clean and wash hands properly, especially when they are made dirty by respiratory secretions, such as after sneezing;
* Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly;
* Clean children's toys and other objects thoroughly and frequently with 1:49 diluted household bleach, followed by rinsing/wiping with clean water;
* Children who are ill should be kept out of school until their fever and rash have subsided and all the vesicles have dried and crusted; and
* Avoid going to overcrowded places.
Ends/Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Issued at HKT 20:07
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