28 Oct 2010
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (October 28) reminded members of the public to stay vigilant and take preventive measures against Hand, Foot and Mouth disease (HFMD) in view of a sustained rise of HFMD activity.
While the peak season of HFMD infection in Hong Kong is usually between May and July, a CHP spokesman said a small peak of HFMD activity also occurred from October to December in the past three years.
Since the beginning of the school term in September this year, CHP has noted an increasing trend of HFMD institutional outbreaks with 81 cases recorded in September. The number is much higher than the corresponding figure in 2008 and 2009, which recorded only two and five cases respectively. More than 20 institutional outbreaks per week have been recorded so far this month.
The spokesman said: "The sentinel surveillance system based at general practitioner clinics and child care centres and kindergartens has also detected a sustained increase in HFMD activity since mid-September.”
"We will continue to closely monitor the situation."
The spokesman said the CHP today sent letters to child care centres and kindergartens to alert them to the latest HFMD infection situation and provide advice on prevention and control.
The spokesman reminded the public to strictly maintain personal and environmental hygiene to prevent infection of HFMD. They are advised to:
* Wash hands before eating and after going to the toilet and changing diapers;
* Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing, and properly dispose of nasal and mouth discharge;
* Never share personal items such as towels and eating utensils;
* Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, furniture and toilets regularly with bleach and water in 1:99 concentration (one part household bleach to 99 parts water);
* Disinfect toys/places which are contaminated by secretions or excreta with household bleach and water at 1:49 concentration;
* Maintain good ventilation;
* Parents should pay attention to the health of their children and seek medical advice if their children develop symptoms of HFMD, especially if the following occurs:
- Fever does not subside
- Repeated vomiting
- Persistent sleepiness or drowsiness
- Myoclonic jerks
* Children suffering from HFMD should refrain from going to school and avoid contact with other children until they recover completely; and
* Parents should maintain close communication with schools to let them know the latest situation of the sick children.
More information on HFMD infection can be found on the CHP website at http://www.chp.gov.hk .