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EV71 case with meningitis complication investigated
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     The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (September 12) investigating a case of Enterovirus-71 (EV71) infection with meningitis complication involving an 11-year-old boy, and urges the public to be vigilant against the disease.

     The boy, with good past health, presented with fever, chills and rigor on August 27. He further developed headache and neck stiffness on September 2 and was admitted to United Christian Hospital on the same day.

     The clinical diagnosis was meningitis. His condition was stable and the patient was discharged on September 8.

     His throat swab tested positive for EV71.

     Preliminary investigation revealed that the patient had travelled to the Mainland with family members in mid August. His 4-year-old sister had mouth ulcers while other home contacts were asymptomatic. The schools that the patient and his sibling attended have not had an enterovirus outbreak.

     Investigation continues.

     A CHP spokesman said that as the infection is transmitted by direct contact with nose and throat discharges, the public should be vigilant against the disease and observe the following preventive measures:

* Wash hands before eating and after going to the toilet and changing diapers;
* Cover mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing;
* Maintain good ventilation; and
* Thoroughly clean toys or appliances which are contaminated by nasal or oral secretions.

     Children suffering from the infection should stay at home and avoid contacting other children until they have recovered.

     For more information, people may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Hotline 2833 0111.

Ends/Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Issued at HKT 18:32

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