CHP investigating a case of EV-71

24 Jun 2009

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (June 24) confirmed a case of Enterovirus-71 (EV-71) infection involving a two-year-old boy who passed away on June 6.

EV-71 is a viral infection usually found among young children. It is also one of the causative agents for hand-foot-mouth disease.

The boy lived in Shenzhen. He developed fever and vomiting on June 1. His parents took him to Queen Mary Hospital for medical attention on June 5. He was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit and died on June 6.

Laboratory tests on samples of nasal swab taken from him yielded positive result to EV-71 infection today.

A CHP spokesman said as the infection was transmitted by direct contact with nose and throat discharges, people should be vigilant against the disease and observe the following preventive measures:

* Wash hands before eating and after going to toilet and changing diapers;
* Cover mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing;
* Maintain good ventilation;
* Thoroughly clean toys or appliances which are contaminated by nasal or oral secretions.

Children suffering from the infection should stay at home and avoid contacting other children until they have recovered.

This is the 21 case of EV-71 infection reported to the CHP this year. There were 16, 12 and 98 cases of EV-71 infections reported in 2006, 2007 and 2008 respectively.

For more information, people may visit the CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk) or call the Central Health Education Hotline 2833 0111.