***********************************************
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (August 22) called on people to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent Enterovirus 71 (EV71) infection and hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD).
The appeal followed an outbreak of HFMD in a residential childcare centre in Mong Kok affecting 21 children aged between 1 and 3.
The affected, comprising 10 males and 11 females, developed oral ulcers, fever, vesicles and rash on hands or feet since July 31.
All of them sought medical consultation but none required hospitalisation. All the affected children are in stable condition.
Laboratory tests on throat swabs from two affected children tested positive for EV71.
Staff of the CHP have conducted a site visit and provided health advice to the institution.
HFMD is a common disease in children usually caused by enteroviruses such as Coxsackie viruses and EV71. EV71 infection is of particular concern as it is more likely to be associated with severe medical complications and even death.
To prevent HFMD, members of the public, especially management of institutions, should adopt the following 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 the 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 1:99 diluted household bleach, followed by rinsing or 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, August 22, 2011
Issued at HKT 16:11
NNNN
