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CHP investigates case of severe paediatric enterovirus infection
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     The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (January 6) investigating a case of severe paediatric enterovirus (EV) infection and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.

     The patient is a 5-year-old girl with good past health. She has presented with fever, headache, vomiting and drowsiness since December 24, 2015. She was admitted to United Christian Hospital on January 1 this year and was subsequently transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit for further management.

     The clinical diagnosis was encephalitis and she is currently in stable condition. Her cerebrospinal fluid tested positive for EV upon testing by the CHP's Public Health Laboratory Services Branch. Initial investigation revealed that the patient had no recent travel history. Her home contacts remain asymptomatic.

     The CHP's investigation is ongoing.

     A spokesman for the CHP said that as EV infection is transmitted by direct contact with nose and throat discharges, the public should be 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 EV 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/Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Issued at HKT 12:45

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