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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 (August 30) investigating a case of severe paediatric enterovirus (EV) infection, and again urged the public and institutions to maintain strict hand, personal and environmental hygiene.

     The case involves a 3-month-old baby boy, with good past health, who presented with fever, cough, runny nose, decreased appetite and rash since August 20. He was taken to the Accident and Emergency Department of Tseung Kwan O Hospital for medical attention on the same day and was admitted for management. The patient's condition remained stable and he was discharged on August 25.

     Laboratory tests of his cerebrospinal fluid specimen were positive for Coxsackievirus A6. The clinical diagnosis was meningitis.

     Initial enquiries revealed that the patient had no recent travel history and his 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/Friday, August 30, 2019
Issued at HKT 18:55
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