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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (July 16) alerted members of the public and management of institutions to maintain good environmental and personal hygiene to prevent fifth disease, an infection caused by parvovirus B19.
The appeal followed the CHP's investigation into an outbreak of fifth disease at a kindergarten-cum-child care centre in Yuen Long, affecting 25 persons.
The affected students comprised 11 males and 10 females, aged between 3 and 6. Together with four staff members, they presented with symptoms of fifth disease, including fever and rash over their face, limbs or trunk, since May 27.
None of the affected students or staff required hospitalisation. All of them remained in stable condition.
The blood sample of one affected student tested positive for antibodies against parvovirus.
CHP staff have visited the institution and provided health advice to the management.
Fifth disease is a mild illness that occurs mostly in children. A typical rash occurs on the face, giving a characteristic "slapped-cheek" appearance. The rash appears less often on the limbs and trunk and sometimes it is slightly itchy. It is preceded by a few days of low-grade fever and tiredness. The rash usually disappears in seven to 10 days.
Parvovirus B19 is transmitted primarily through direct contact with infected respiratory secretions. It can also be transmitted from mother to foetus during pregnancy.
As fifth disease is usually a mild illness, no definite treatment is needed. Anti-fever drugs may relieve the symptoms. Patients should rest at home until they fully recover. Pregnant women and persons with low immunity who have been exposed to someone with fifth disease should consult their doctor for further management.
To prevent fifth disease, members of the public are advised to adopt the following measures:
* Maintain good personal hygiene;
* Keep hands clean and wash hands properly;
* Wash hands when they are dirtied by respiratory secretions, e.g. after sneezing;
* Cover the nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Avoid close contact with patients with fifth disease.
Ends/Monday, July 16, 2012
Issued at HKT 17:02
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