CHP investigates case of severe paediatric enterovirus infection
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The patient is a 10-year-old boy with good past health. He has presented with fever, vomiting and headache since August 21. He attended the Accident and Emergency Department of Prince of Wales Hospital (PWH) on August 23, and was admitted on the same day. He has been in stable condition all along.
His clinical diagnosis was encephalitis. His cerebrospinal fluid tested positive for EV upon testing by PWH.
Initial investigation revealed that the patient had travelled to Taishan in Guangdong and Guilin in Guangxi from August 12 to 23. His travel collateral and home contacts have remained 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 or call the DH's health education hotline (2833 0111).
Ends/Friday, August 26, 2016
Issued at HKT 17:30
Issued at HKT 17:30
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