CHP investigates imported case of severe paediatric enterovirus infection
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The 3-month-old baby girl with good past health has presented with fever, cough, runny nose and rash over her face since June 7. She was admitted to Kwong Wah Hospital on June 11 for management. The clinical diagnosis was meningitis and the patient is now in a stable condition.
Her cerebrospinal fluid specimen tested positive for enterovirus upon laboratory testing.
Initial enquiries revealed that the patient and her mother had travelled to Heyuan, Guangdong, between May 26 and June 9. Her 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, June 14, 2017
Issued at HKT 18:21
Issued at HKT 18:21
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