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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (June 20) investigated a case of severe paediatric enterovirus (EV) infection with meningitis complications affecting an 18-month-old boy, and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.
The boy, with good past health, presented with fever and runny nose since June 13. He developed convulsion on June 15 and was admitted to the general paediatric ward of Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital on the same day.
The clinical diagnosis was meningitis due to EV infection. His condition has been stable all along. His cerebrospinal fluid, nasal and rectal swab specimens tested positive for EV.
The boy had no travel history. His home contacts were asymptomatic.
The CHP investigation is continuing.
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 the toilet and changing diapers;
* Cover the 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/Thursday, June 20, 2013
Issued at HKT 17:27
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