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The Po Leung Kuk Tam Au-Yeung Siu Fong Memorial Kindergarten in Whampoa Garden has been advised to suspend classes for two weeks starting from tomorrow (June 10) following the Centre for Health Protection's (CHP) investigation into a viral meningitis case related to the hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) school outbreak involving a four-year-old boy.
The boy had a fever, headache and vomiting since June 6 and was admitted to Kwong Wah Hospital on June 8. He is now in stable condition. His clinical picture is compatible with viral meningitis.
His throat and rectal swabs tested positive for enterovirus. Results of further laboratory tests are pending.
The CHP received a report concerning an HFMD outbreak in the kindergarten involving four boys and a girl as well as a staff member.
As a precautionary measure, the CHP advised the school (both AM and PM sessions) to suspend classes.
Investigation continues.
The CHP has put the institution under medical surveillance and provided health advice to the staff.
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/Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Issued at HKT 18:37
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