CHP reports case of severe paediatric enterovirus infection with complication
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The 14-day-old baby girl, who lives in Shenzhen with good past health, developed fever on July 2 and was taken to the out-patient clinic of a private hospital in Hong Kong on July 5 for medical attention. She was referred to KWH on the same day for further management. She was discharged on July 13 in stable condition.
The clinical diagnosis was EV infection complicated with meningitis. Her cerebrospinal fluid and rectal swab tested positive for EV.
Initial enquiries revealed that the patient's elder brother developed fever and vomiting on June 30 and had recovered. Other home contacts have remained asymptomatic so far. Investigations are 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.
The public may visit the CHP's page on hand, foot and mouth disease and EV71 infection for more information.
Ends/Wednesday, August 31, 2016
Issued at HKT 18:43
Issued at HKT 18:43
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