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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (June 14) investigating a case of neurological complication suspected to be caused by enterovirus (EV) infection.
The case involved a seven-year-old boy who presented with fever, rash over limbs and sore throat on June 11. He complained headache and nausea subsequently on June 14 and was admitted to Kwong Wah Hospital on the same day. He is now in stable condition.
He was clinically diagnosed as meningitis with Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease. Further laboratory tests are being conducted while investigation continues.
His home contacts were asymptomatic.
The boy studied in St. Patrick's School in Wong Tai Sin where an HFMD outbreak was reported on May 28, involving four boys aged between eight and 12. The onset date of the last case was June 1. Health advice was given to the school and CHP will closely monitor the situation.
The spokesman reminded the public to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene during the current HFMD high season and 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/Monday, June 14, 2010
Issued at HKT 20:28
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