**********************************************************
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) is today (May 26) investigating a case of severe paediatric enterovirus (EV) infection and hence urged the public to stay vigilant.
The patient is a one-month-old boy with good past health. He has developed fever, cough and vomiting since May 23 and was admitted to United Christian Hospital on the same day for management.
The clinical diagnosis was meningitis. He has been in stable condition all along.
His cerebrospinal fluid specimen and rectal swab were tested positive for enterovirus upon preliminary laboratory testing by the CHP's Public Health Laboratory Services Branch.
Initial enquiries by the CHP revealed that he had no recent travel history. His home contacts have remained asymptomatic. Investigations are proceeding.
A spokesman for the CHP said that as EV infection is transmitted by direct contact with nose and throat discharges, the public should remain vigilant 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 contact with other children until they have recovered.
For more information, the public may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk) or call the DH's Health Education Hotline (2833 0111).
Ends/Monday, May 26, 2014
Issued at HKT 19:54
NNNN
