**************************************
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (June 27) confirmed five cases of Enterovirus-71 (EV71) infection and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.
A spokesman for the CHP said the cases involved four girls and a boy, aged from three to 12. Laboratory tests on their throat or stool samples collected earlier showed positive result to EV71.
In the first case, a three-year-old girl developed symptoms of hand, food and mouth diseases (HFMD) including oral ulcers and rash over hands and feet on June 23 and consulted a private doctor. No hospitalization is required.
Three other children, comprising a boy and two girls aged from three to four of the nursery she attended in Southern District, had similar HFMD symptoms between June 23 and 26. They consulted private doctors and had recovered. The CHP had already provided health advice to the school and is closely monitoring the situation.
The second case involved a three-year-old boy who showed similar symptoms on June 23. He was admitted to the United Christian Hospital on the next day and was discharged on June 26. His family members did not show any symptoms.
In the third case, a three-year-old girl living in Dongguan presented with similar symptoms on June 18. She came to Hong Kong on June 20 and was admitted to the Prince of Wales Hospital. She was discharged on June 21.
Regarding the fourth case, a three-year-old girl who lives in Shenzhen developed similar symptoms on June 21. She arrived in Hong Kong on June 24 and was admitted to the Princess Margaret Hospital. She was discharged on June 25. Her five-month-old sister, who showed similar symptoms earlier, was confirmed to have EV71 infection yesterday.
In the last case, the patient is a 12-year-old girl who attended a private clinic. Further investigation by CHP is proceeding.
There are 65 cases of EV71 infection reported to CHP so far this year. There were 35, 8, 16 and 12 cases in the years 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively.
EV71 is a viral infection usually found among young children. It is also one of the causative agents for HFMD.
A CHP spokesman said that May to August was the usual peak season for HFMD and EV71. The infection is transmitted by direct contact with nose and throat discharges, people 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;
* 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/Friday, June 27, 2008
Issued at HKT 23:35
NNNN