**********************************************************
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (July 11) investigating a case of severe paediatric enterovirus (EV) infection and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.
The case involved a girl aged two with good past health. She presented with fever, vomiting and rash over her lower limbs since July 1. She was taken to the Accident and Emergency Department of Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital on July 4 and was admitted on the same day. Her condition deteriorated after admission and she passed away on July 5.
Her throat swab and blood specimen tested positive for EV upon preliminary laboratory testing by Prince of Wales Hospital.
Initial enquiries by the CHP revealed that the patient lived in Shenzhen. Her home contacts remain asymptomatic. The CHP's investigation is continuing.
The case has been referred to the Coroner for follow-up.
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/Friday, July 11, 2014
Issued at HKT 15:49
NNNN
