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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (March 2) investigated a case of severe paediatric enterovirus (EV) infection with meningitis complications affecting a six-year-old girl, and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.
The girl, with good past health, presented with fever and headache since February 22 and subsequently developed oral ulcer, generalised maculopapular rash and severe headache since February 25. She sought medical consultation from private doctors and was subsequently admitted to the general paediatric ward of Kwong Wah Hospital on February 27.
The clinical diagnosis was meningitis due to EV infection. Her condition has been stable all along. Her cerebrospinal fluid and rectal swabs specimens both tested positive for EV.
The girl had no travel history. Her home contacts were asymptomatic.
The CHP investigation continues.
A CHP spokesman said that as EV 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 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 website (www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Hotline 2833 0111.
Ends/Saturday, March 2, 2013
Issued at HKT 19:13
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