CHP investigates case of severe paediatric enterovirus infection
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The 3-month-old baby boy with good past health has presented with fever and loss of appetite since August 29. He was taken to the Accident and Emergency Department of Tseung Kwan O Hospital the next day and was admitted on the same day for management. The clinical diagnosis was meningitis. The patient is now in stable condition.
His rectal swab tested positive for EV upon testing by the CHP's Public Health Laboratory Services Branch.
Initial enquiries revealed that the patient had no travel history and his home contacts remained asymptomatic. 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/Friday, September 2, 2016
Issued at HKT 18:08
Issued at HKT 18:08
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