Announcement

Collapse
No announcement yet.

Archive. Hong Kong: HFMD and EV71 cases with neurological complications, cases' list (2010)

Collapse
This is a sticky topic.
X
X
 
  • Filter
  • Time
  • Show
Clear All
new posts

  • Archive. Hong Kong: HFMD and EV71 cases with neurological complications, cases' list (2010)

    Hong Kong: Public urged to prevent Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (2/4/10)

    The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 4) called on people to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD).

    The appeal followed an outbreak of the disease in a kindergarten-cum-child care centre in Kwai Chung involving 21 children.

    The affected children are 12 boys and nine girls aged between two and five.

    They developed oral ulcers and rash over their hands or feet from January 15. All of them sought medical consultation and none required hospitalisation. All the children are in stable condition.

    CHP staff have visited the centre and provided health advice to the management.

    To prevent HFMD, members of the public, including the management of institutions, should adopt the following measures:

    * Maintain good ventilation.
    * Wash hands before meals and after going to the toilet, handling diapers or other stool-soiled materials.
    * Keep hands clean and wash hands properly, especially when they are dirtied by respiratory secretions, e.g. after sneezing.
    * Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly.
    * Clean children's toys and other objects thoroughly and frequently with 1:99 diluted household bleach, followed by rinsing/wiping with clean water.
    * Children who are ill should be kept out of school until their fever and rash have subsided and all the vesicles have dried and crusted.
    * Avoid going to overcrowded places.

    For more advice on the prevention of HFMD, people may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk) or call the department's Central Health Education Unit hotline 2833 0111.
    -

    View Original Article

  • #2
    Hong Kong: CHP stays vigilant against Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease and Enterovirus 71 infection (4/13/10)

    Hong Kong: CHP stays vigilant against Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease and Enterovirus 71 infection (4/13/10)

    [Source: Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong PRC SAR, View Original Article. Edited.]

    The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (April 13) reminded members of the public to take preventive measures against Hand, Foot and Mouth disease (HFMD) and Enterovirus 71 (EV71) infection.

    While the peak season of HFMD and EV71 infection in Hong Kong is usually between May and July, a CHP spokesman said there has been an increase in the number of outbreaks in institutions since mid-March. In March this year, the CHP received 29 reports of HFMD/herpangina outbreaks in institutions, higher than the 10 outbreaks each reported in January and February.

    "The sentinel surveillance system based at child care centres and kindergartens has recently detected a significant increase in HFMD activity.

    "The CHP has also received nine reports of EV71 infections so far this year. The patients were aged between one and nine years old. All had mild symptoms without severe complications," the spokesman said.

    Recent surveillance revealed that EV71 isolates had no significant genetic changes, he added.

    "Meanwhile, HFMD and EV71 infection remain active in neighbouring areas including Guangdong Province, some parts of the Mainland and some countries in Southeast Asia.

    "We will continue to closely monitor the situation," the spokesman said.

    The spokesman said the CHP today sent another round of letters to doctors, child care centres, kindergartens, primary and secondary schools to alert them to the most current HFMD and EV71 infection situation and provide advice on prevention and control. Similar letters had been issued on March 25 to remind them of the approach of the peak season for these diseases. Health talks for institutions are being arranged this month in collaboration with Education Bureau and Social Welfare Department to strengthen their capacity for preventing and controlling HFMD and EV71 infection, the spokesman added.

    The weekly "EV SCAN" has been published on the CHP website (www.chp.gov.hk) to summarise the latest statistics for HFMD and EV71 infection.

    As HFMD and EV71 infection is common in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia, the spokesman reminded the public to strictly observe personal and environmental hygiene while in Hong Kong and during travel to prevent infection.

    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 EV71 and HFMD can be found on the CHP website.
    -
    ------

    Comment


    • #3
      Hong Kong: EV71 case with neurological complications investigated (4/22/10)

      Hong Kong: EV71 case with neurological complications investigated (4/22/10)

      [Source: Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong SAR, View Original Article.]

      The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (April 22) investigating a case of Enterovirus-71 (EV71) infection with neurological complications involving an 18-month-old girl and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.

      The girl lived in Yuen Long. She developed fever and rash on April 17, and vesicles on her limbs and oral ulcers the next day. The girl was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on April 19. She developed convulsions after admission. Her condition has improved and she is now in stable condition. Her stool and throat swab specimens were tested positive for EV71. Her family members are asymptomatic.

      A CHP spokesman said as the infection was transmitted by direct contact with nose and throat discharges, the public 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 20th case of EV71 reported this year. A total of 31 and 98 cases were reported in 2009 and 2008 respectively.

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

      Comment


      • #4
        Hong Kong: EV71 case with neurological complications investigated (5/6/10)

        Hong Kong: EV71 case with neurological complications investigated (5/6/10)

        [Source: Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong PRC SAR, View Original Article.]

        The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (May 6) investigating a case of Enterovirus-71 (EV71) infection with neurological complications involving an 18-year-old female and urged the public to be vigilant against the disease.

        The girl lived in Sai Wan. She presented with symptoms of rash over her hands and feet together with oral ulcers on April 10 and developed a high fever, headache and neck stiffness the next day. She was admitted to a public hospital on Hong Kong Island on April 13 and was diagnosed to have meningoencephalitis. Her condition was stable and she was discharged on April 18. Her clinical specimen tested positive for EV71.

        The CHP's investigation showed that she had travelled with her family to the Mainland from March 30 to April 10. Her family members are asymptomatic.

        A CHP spokesman said the infection was transmitted by direct contact with nose and throat discharges, saliva, fluid from blisters, or the stool of infected persons.

        Members of the public 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 contact with other children until they have recovered.

        This is the 22nd case of EV71 reported this year. A total of 31 and 98 cases were reported in 2009 and 2008 respectively.

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

        Comment


        • #5
          Archive. Hong Kong: HFMD, EV71 cases, information, and other news (2010)

          Hong Kong: Public urged to prevent Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (5/17/10)

          [Source: Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong PRC SAR, View Original Article.]

          The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 17) called on people to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD).

          The appeal followed an outbreak of the disease in a kindergarten cum child care centre in Tseung Kwan O affecting 21 children.

          The affected children, 14 boys and seven girls aged between two and six, have developed oral ulcers, fever and rash on their hands or feet since May 3.

          Twenty of them sought medical consultation and none required hospitalisation. All the children are now in stable condition.

          The CHP has put the institution under medical surveillance and provided health advice to the staff.

          To prevent HFMD, members of the public, especially management of institutions, should adopt the following measures:
          • Maintain good air circulation.
          • Wash hands before meals and after going to the toilet, handling diapers or other stool-soiled materials.
          • Keep hands clean and wash hands properly, especially when they are made dirty by respiratory secretions, such as after sneezing.
          • Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly.
          • Clean children's toys and other objects thoroughly and frequently with 1:99 diluted household bleach, followed by rinsing/wiping with clean water.
          • Children who are ill should be kept out of school until their fever and rash have subsided and all the vesicles have dried and crusted.
          • Avoid going to overcrowded places.

          -
          -----

          Comment


          • #6
            Hong Kong: Public urged to prevent Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (5/20/10)

            Hong Kong: Public urged to prevent Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (5/20/10)

            [Source: Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong PRC SAR, View Original Article.]

            The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 20) called on people to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD).

            The appeal followed an outbreak of the disease in a kindergarten in Tai Po affecting 21 children. The affected children, 14 boys and 7 girls aged between three and five, developed oral ulcers, fever and rash on their hands or feet from April 26. All of them sought medical consultation and none required hospitalisation. All the children are now in stable condition. Laboratory test on the stool sample of one of the affected children was positive for group A Coxsackie virus.

            The CHP has put the institution under medical surveillance and provided health advice to the staff.

            To prevent HFMD, members of the public, especially management of institutions, should adopt the following measures:
            • Maintain good air circulation.
            • Wash hands before meals and after going to the toilet, handling diapers or other stool-soiled materials.
            • Keep hands clean and wash hands properly, especially when they are made dirty by respiratory secretions, such as after sneezing.
            • Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly.
            • Clean children's toys and other objects thoroughly and frequently with 1:99 diluted household bleach, followed by rinsing/wiping with clean water.
            • Children who are ill should be kept out of school until their fever and rash have subsided and all the vesicles have dried and crusted.
            • Avoid going to overcrowded places.

            -
            -----

            Comment


            • #7
              Hong Kong: CHP investigates suspected herpangina outbreak (5/24/10)

              Hong Kong: CHP investigates suspected herpangina outbreak (5/24/10)

              [Source: Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong PRC SAR, View Original Article.]

              The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 24) called on the public to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent herpangina.

              The appeal followed a suspected outbreak of the disease in a kindergarten cum child care centre in Cheung Chau affecting 26 children. The affected children, 17 boys and nine girls aged between two and six, developed fever, oral ulcers and vesicles from May 12. Twenty-three of them sought medical consultation. One of the children required hospitalisation and has been discharged. All the affected are currently in stable condition. Investigation continues.

              The CHP has put the institution under medical surveillance and provided health advice to the staff.

              To prevent herpangina, members of the public, especially management of institutions, should adopt the following measures:
              • Maintain good air circulation.
              • Wash hands before meals and after going to the toilet, handling diapers or other stool-soiled materials.
              • Keep hands clean and wash hands properly, especially when they are made dirty by respiratory secretions, such as after sneezing.
              • Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly.
              • Clean children's toys and other objects thoroughly and frequently with 1:99 diluted household bleach, followed by rinsing/wiping with clean water.
              • Children who are ill should be kept out of school until their fever, ulcers and vesicles have subsided.
              • Avoid going to overcrowded places.

              -
              -----

              Comment


              • #8
                Hong Kong: Joint departmental effort to tackle Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease and EV71 (5/27/10)

                Hong Kong: Joint departmental effort to tackle Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease and EV71 (5/27/10)

                [Source: Hong Kong PRC SAR, View Original Article.]

                An inter-departmental meeting was held today (May 27) to review the latest situation of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) and Enterovirus 71 (EV71) infection in Hong Kong as well as the current preventive and control measures taken by various departments and parties against the diseases.

                The meeting was organised by the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health in view of the recent increase in HFMD and EV71 activity. Participants included representatives from Education Bureau (EDB), Hospital Authority, Social Welfare Department (SWD), Food and Environmental Hygiene Department and Leisure and Cultural Services Department.

                Speaking after the meeting, the CHP's Consultant, Community Medicine (Communicable Disease), Dr S K Chuang, said departments concerned agreed that concerted efforts were important in tackling the diseases. The meeting also discussed further preventive and control strategies by different departments and parties, and agreed that the current criteria on class suspension at individual child care institutions/schools due to EV 71 infection would be maintained.

                Dr Chuang said examples of scenarios requiring class suspension included occurrence of further cases in an institution attended by a confirmed EV 71 case after stepping up control measures; occurrence of an EV71 case suffering from severe complications, and the institution the child attends having an associated HFMD outbreak.

                EV71 is a viral infection usually found among young children. Most EV71 infections cause mild illness such as HFMD but a small proportion of the affected persons will develop complications. Dr Chuang said the CHP had recorded 32 EV71 cases so far this year, which was higher than the corresponding periods last year. The number of EV71 cases in 2007, 2008 and 2009 were 12, 98 and 31 respectively. She added that the CHP's surveillance data showed a continuous rise in HFMD since mid-March this year.

                "We have already put in place surveillance systems for HFMD and EV71 infections including outbreak notification, sentinel clinics, and laboratory surveillance," Dr Chuang said. Earlier in March and April, the CHP sent letters to these institutions to advise them about the importance of good personal and environmental hygiene in the prevention of HFMD and EV71.

                The CHP has also issued letters to doctors reminding them to be vigilant about the diseases. With the coordination of the SWD and the EDB, the CHP has organised refresher health talks for the managements of childcare centres and schools in April to enhance their knowledge of preventing EV71 infection.

                The inter-departmental meeting agreed to carry out the following measures to strengthen the prevention and control of HFMD and EV71 infection:
                • The CHP, SWD and EDB will send letters again to childcare centres and schools detailing the measures they should take to prevent HFMD and EV71 infections;
                • The departments concerned will launch intensified community education campaigns about the diseases via television, radio, at public venues and other channels;
                • The CHP will issue letters to doctors again updating them on the latest situation and soliciting their assistance to provide health advice to parents.

                The CHP will continue to closely monitor the local situation and overseas areas. EV71 infection is a statutorily notifiable disease in Hong Kong. To facilitate early implementation of control measures, doctors are reminded to report to the CHP clinical cases that have severe complications possibly due to EV71.

                To prevent HFMD and EV71 infection, the public is urged to stay vigilant and strictly observe personal and environmental hygiene. While in Hong Kong or when travelling, the public is 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 diluted bleach (one portion of household bleach adding 99 portions of water);
                • Maintain good indoor ventilation;
                • Disinfect toys/places which are contaminated by secretions or excreta with diluted household bleach (one portion of household bleach adding 99 portions of water);
                • 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 occur:
                  • Fever not subsided;
                  • Repeated vomiting;
                  • Persistent sleepiness or drowsiness;
                  • Myoclonic jerks;
                • Children suffering from HFMD should stay at home and avoid contact with other children until they are completely recovered. Parents should maintain close communication with schools to let them know the latest situation of the sick children. They should also take necessary precautions while taking care of sick children.

                More information on the preventive measures against EV 71 infection and HFMD can be found at the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
                -
                ------

                Comment


                • #9
                  Hong Kong: Public urged to prevent Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (5/28/10): Two more cases complicated with viral meningitis

                  Hong Kong: Public urged to prevent Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (5/28/10)

                  [Source: Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong PRC SAR, View Original Article.]

                  The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 28) called on people to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to preent Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD).

                  The appeal followed investigation into two HFMD cases with neurological complications and outbreaks of HFMD in a nursery school in Tuen Mun and a primary school in Wong Tai Sin.

                  The first case with complication involved a 34-year-old woman living in Tuen Mun. She presented with headache and fever since May 20 and developed rash with vesicles over limbs and oral ulcers on May 22. She was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital on May 25. Her clinical picture was compatible with HFMD and viral meningitis and she was transferred to isolation ward for treatment. She is currently in stable condition. Her 17-month-old daughter developed fever on May 21 and her 34-month-old son presented with symptoms of HFMD on May 27. Other family members are asymptomatic.

                  A CHP spokesman noted that there was a HFMD outbreak in the nursery, HKSKH St Simon's Leung King Nursery School in Tuen Mun, which the patient's son attended. Four boys and two girls aged between two and four developed oral ulers, fever and rash or vesicles on hands or feet since May 14. All of them sought medical treatment and no hospitalisation is required. They are now in stable condition. As a precautionary measure, the CHP advised the nursery school to suspend classes from May 29 to June 11 for thorough cleansing and disinfection.

                  The second case with complication involved a 43-year-old man living in Kwun Tong. He presented with symptoms of rash over his limbs on May 22 and developed fever and oral ulcers on May 24. On May 27, he started having double vision and high fever and was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital. He is being investigated for his neurological manifestation. His seven-year-old son developed sore throat on May 15 and presented with fever, oral ulers and vesicles on limbs the next day. He had sought medical treatment and is now in stable condition. The son is studying in St. Francis of Assisi's English Primary School with a HFMD outbreak linked to a severe viral meningitis case. The school has been advised to suspend classes until June 10.

                  Meanwhile, CHP is also following up on an outbreak of HFMD in a primary school in Wong Tai Sin. The affected children, 12 boys and 12 girls aged between seven and 12, developed oral ulcers, fever and rash on their hands or feet since April 29. Twenty-one children sought medical consultation. A boy aged six was admitted to hospital and had been discharged on May 18. All 24 children are now in stable condition. The CHP has put the concerned institutions and families under medical surveillance and provided health advice. Investigation continues.

                  To prevent HFMD, members of the public, especially management of institutions, should adopt the following measures:
                  • Maintain good indoor ventilation.
                  • Wash hands before meals and after going to the toilet, handling diapers or other stool-soiled materials.
                  • Keep hands clean and wash hands properly, especially when they are made dirty by respiratory secretions, such as after sneezing.
                  • Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly.
                  • Clean children's toys and other objects thoroughly and frequently with 1:49 diluted household bleach, followed by rinsing/wiping with clean water.
                  • Children who are ill should be kept out of school until their fever and rash have subsided and all the vesicles have dried and crusted.
                  • Avoid going to overcrowded places.

                  -
                  -----

                  Comment


                  • #10
                    Re: Hong Kong: Public urged to prevent Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (5/28/10): Two more cases complicated with viral meningitis

                    Source: http://7thspace.com/headlines/346106...lications.html

                    Update on two HFMD cases with neurological complications


                    Hong Kong (HKSAR) - A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 29) said that the two patients who contracted Hand, Food and Mouth Disease (HFMD) with neurological complications remained in stable condition. The spokesman noted that the fever of the 34-year-old woman staying at Tuen Mun Hospital had subsided and she is fully conscious. She is now in the isolation ward for treatment.

                    Laboratory tests showed that the stool specimens taken from her yielded positive results to Enterovirus 71 (EV71). As for the 43-year-old man at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, the spokesman said he has been transferred to the isolation room of the Intensive Care Unit for close observation. He is fully conscious with intermittent double vision.

                    Laboratory tests on his specimen are ongoing. The spokesman called on members of the public to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent HFMD and EV71. They should adopt the following measures: * Maintain good indoor ventilation.

                    * Wash hands before meals and after going to toilet, handling diapers or other stool soiled material. * Keep hands clean and wash hands properly, especially when they are dirtied by respiratory secretions e.g. after sneezing.

                    * Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly. * Clean children's toys and other objects thoroughly and frequently with 1:49 diluted household bleach, followed by rinsing/wiping with clean water. * Children who are ill should be kept out of school until their fever and rash have subsided and all the vesicles have dried and crusted.

                    * Avoid going to overcrowded places.

                    Source: HKSAR Government

                    Comment


                    • #11
                      Hong Kong: Update on HFMD cases (5/31/10): About a 35-year-old woman died of encephalitis

                      Hong Kong: Update on HFMD cases (5/31/10)

                      [Source: Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong PRC SAR, View Original Article.]

                      The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (May 31) has released updated laboratory test result in connection with the 35-year-old woman who died of encephalitis on May 23.

                      Her throat swab specimen has yielded positive result for Coxsackievirus A16 in the tests by both CHP's Public Health Laboratory Centre and the Microbiology Department of Queen Mary Hospital.

                      Coxsackievirus A16 is the commonest type of enterovirus causing Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in Hong Kong. Majority of the patients have mild illness.

                      Rarely, it may cause complications such as myocarditis, pneumonia, meningitis and encephalitis as reported in overseas literature. The woman presented with rash over hands on May 12. She further developed fever and dizziness on May 21. On May 22, she was found collapsed and was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH). She passed away the next day. Earlier on, specimens of her throat and rectal swabs were preliminarily tested positive for enterovirus.

                      As for the 43-year-old man at QEH, a spokesman for CHP said he is in stable condition, no longer suffering from double vision and has been transferred out of the Intensive Care Unit. Laboratory tests on his specimens are still going on.

                      The spokesman added that the 34-year-old woman at Tuen Mun Hospital who was confirmed to be suffering from Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is now in stable condition.

                      According to reports received by the DH, during the past 12 years in Hong Kong, four HFMD related deaths were known to occur in 1999, 2000, 2008 and 2009 respectively. All were children and caused by EV71.

                      The spokesman reminded members of the public, particularly management of institutions, to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent HFMD and EV71.

                      They should:
                      • Maintain good indoor ventilation.
                      • Wash hands before meals and after going to the toilet, handling diapers or other stool-soiled materials.
                      • Keep hands clean and wash hands properly, especially when they are made dirty by respiratory secretions, such as after sneezing.
                      • Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly.
                      • Clean children's toys and other objects thoroughly and frequently with 1:49 diluted household bleach, followed by rinsing/wiping with clean water.
                      • Children who are ill should be kept out of school until their fever and rash have subsided and all the vesicles have dried and crusted.
                      • Avoid going to overcrowded places.

                      For more information about the current status of HFMD, please refer to a daily sitrep published by CHP at its website, www.chp.gov.hk.
                      -
                      ------

                      Comment


                      • #12
                        Hong Kong: School closures due to HFMD (6/1/10): one herpangina pediatric case developed cerebellitis

                        Hong Kong: School closures due to HFMD (6/1/10)

                        [Source: Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong PRC SAR, View Original Article.]

                        Learning Habitat Kindergarten & Bilingual Nursery (Hampton Loft) in Yau Tsim Mong has been advised to suspend classes for two weeks until June 15 following investigation by the Department of Health's Centre for Health Protection (CHP) into a Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD)/herpangina outbreak at the school involving eight pupils.

                        One of the cases in the kindergarten with herpangina who developed complication, a three-year-old girl, was reported to the CHP this afternoon (June 1). She was admitted to Queen Mary Hospital (QMH). The other affected pupils are in stable condition. The girl presented with fever and sore throat on May 23 and was diagnosed as herpangina on May 24 by a private paediatrician. Her fever subsided on May 25. She then presented with neck pain on May 29. On May 30 she developed unsteady gait and tremor and was admitted to QMH. She was diagnosed to have cerebellitis. The girl is now in stable condition. Result of laboratory investigations is pending.

                        In a related development, Cannan Kindergarten in Whampoa Garden which has been closed for a week will continue to suspend classes between June 3 and 9 as two new cases have emerged during the surveillance period, with the two affected pupils now in stable condition.

                        Meanwhile, a spokesman for CHP said the 43-year-old male patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) had been tested positive for enterovirus 71 (EV71). The man's rectal swab specimens were tested positive for EV71 virus by CHP's Public Health Laboratory Centre. He is now in stable condition with neither fever nor double vision. The man presented with rash over his limbs on May 22 and developed fever and oral ulcers on May 24. On May 27, he started having double vision and high fever and was admitted to QEH.

                        The spokesman reminded members of the public, particularly management of institutions, to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent HFMD and EV71.

                        They should:
                        • Maintain good indoor ventilation.
                        • Wash hands before meals and after going to the toilet, handling diapers or other stool-soiled materials.
                        • Keep hands clean and wash hands properly, especially when they are made dirty by respiratory secretions, such as after sneezing.
                        • Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly.
                        • Clean children's toys and other objects thoroughly and frequently with 1:49 diluted household bleach, followed by rinsing/wiping with clean water.
                        • Children who are ill should be kept out of school until their fever and rash have subsided and all the vesicles have dried and crusted.
                        • Avoid going to overcrowded places.

                        More information about the current status of HFMD is available from a daily sitrep published by CHP at its website, www.chp.gov.hk.
                        -
                        ------

                        Comment


                        • #13
                          Hong Kong: Negative test results for two suspected enterovirus cases (6/2/10): one case with encephalitis and one fatal case both EV negative

                          Hong Kong: Negative test results for two suspected enterovirus cases (6/2/10)

                          [Source: Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong PRC SAR, View Original Article.]

                          The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (June 2) said two latest suspected enterovirus (EV) cases have yielded negative results for the virus in tests carried out by CHP's Public Health Laboratory Centre (PHLC).

                          The first was a suspected EV case with encephalitis reported to CHP today. It involved a 58-year-old man living alone in To Kwa Wan. The man was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) for right patella fracture on May 20. He developed fever with decreasing conscious level from May 24. His condition further deteriorated and was transferred to Intensive Care Unit (ICU) on June 1. Neurological examination showed ophthalmoplegia. A CHP spokesman noted that the man did not have any signs of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD). Clinical diagnosis was brainstem encephalitis and possibly secondary to EV71 infection. He is in critical condition. Laboratory results for rectal and throat swabs, stool and nasopharyngeal aspirate specimens taken from the patient were negative for EV and EV71.

                          The second case involved a 45-year-old woman suspected to be an EV case who died in Princess Margaret Hospital on June 1, 2010. The spokesman noted that her specimens also yielded negative result for EV in the tests by PHLC. The woman developed vomiting and tachycardia on May 31. She sought medical treatment at the Accident and Emergency Department of Princess Margaret Hospital and was admitted the same day. As her condition deteriorated, she was transferred to ICU on June 1 and passed away the same day. The case has been referred to the Coroner for investigation. The spokesman said the woman had no HFMD symptom. Her blood, throat and rectal swab specimens yielded negative results for EV and EV71.

                          "Further laboratory tests will be carried out by PHLC," the spokesman said.

                          The spokesman added that home contacts of the woman were asymptomatic.

                          Meanwhile, the spokesman said results for laboratory tests on specimens taken from a three-year-old girl suffering from HFMD with cerebellitis complication were still pending.

                          The spokesman reiterated the importance of strictly observing personal and environmental hygiene to prevent HFMD and EV71 infection.

                          For more information about the current status of HFMD, please refer to a daily sitrep published by CHP at its website, www.chp.gov.hk. The website also carries measures for prevention.
                          -
                          -----

                          Comment


                          • #14
                            Hong Kong: Vigilance urged against Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (6/4/10): Three more patients with neurological symptoms

                            Hong Kong: Vigilance urged against Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (6/4/10)

                            [Source: Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong PRC SAR, View Original Article.]

                            The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has repeated its urge for the public to stay vigilant against Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) during its current high season as three more reports of neurological complications suspected to be due to enterovirus (EV) infection were received today (June 4).

                            The first case, received today, was an eight-year-old boy with good past health. He presented with on and off fever since May 23 and was seen by a general practitioner. The boy had decreased appetite, lethargy and inappropriate speech on May 29. He was admitted to United Christian Hospital. He was put in Intensive Care Unit for close observation the next day. His symptoms were clinically compatible with encephalitis. The boy is now in serious condition. His throat and rectal swab specimens were tested negative for EV but further tests are being conducted to ascertain the cause of illness. The boy's home contacts were asymptomatic. He attended a primary school in Kwun Tong where no HFMD outbreak was noted.

                            The second case, also received today, was a confirmed case of EV infection with encephalitis complication. It involved a 23-year-old male student with good past health. He presented with fever, headache, diarrhea and vomiting on May 19 and consulted a general practitioner. On May 24, his fever persisted and he was admitted to Kwong Wah Hospital. He is now in stable condition. Preliminary laboratory result of his cerebrospinal fluid was positive for EV. Further laboratory tests are being conducted. The man did not attend classes after the onset of symptoms and his home contacts are asymptomatic. The patient travelled to the Mainland on May 17 with four persons. The CHP is contacting his travel collaterals to enquire their health status.

                            The third case, received last night, involved a 13-year-old boy who had viral meningitis. His specimens yielded positive results for EV. His current condition is stable. Further laboratory tests are in progress. There was no HFMD outbreak detected in the secondary school where he studied. His younger brother had fever, cough and running nose since May 12. His fever had subsided. He is now in stable condition. Clinical specimens were taken from him and results were pending. There is no current HFMD outbreak in the school he attended.

                            In another development, a CHP spokesman said the stool specimen of the three-year-old girl with cerebellitus complication was tested positive for Coxackie A4 virus. She is now in stable condition and has been discharged today.

                            The spokesman called on the public to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent HFMD.

                            They should adopt the following measures:
                            • Maintain good air circulation;
                            • Wash hands before meals and after going to the toilet, handling diapers or other stool soiled materials;
                            • Keep hands clean and wash hands properly, especially when they are made dirty by respiratory secretions, such as after sneezing;
                            • Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly;
                            • Clean children's toys and other objects thoroughly and frequently with 1:49 diluted household bleach, followed by rinsing/wiping with clean water;
                            • Children who are ill should be kept out of school until their fever and rash have subsided and all the vesicles have dried and crusted; and
                            • Avoid going to overcrowded places.

                            -
                            -----

                            Comment


                            • #15
                              Hong Kong: Laboratory result of neurological complication suspected to be caused by EV infection (6/7/10): one additional case of viral meningitis, coxsackie virus B5

                              Hong Kong: Laboratory result of neurological complication suspected to be caused by EV infection (6/7/10)

                              [Source: Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong PRC SAR, View Original Article.]

                              The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has received the laboratory test result of a neurological complication case suspected to be due to enterovirus (EV) infection.

                              The case involved a 13-year-old boy who had viral meningitis. His rectal swab specimen was tested positive for Coxsackie virus B5. He is still in Queen Elizabeth Hospital but in stable condition. The rectal swab of the boy's younger brother was preliminarily tested positive for enterovirus but negative for EV71. Further laboratory tests are being conducted.

                              The throat and rectal swabs of other home contacts were negative for EV71.

                              Meanwhile, CHP has also received the report of a viral encephalitis case at Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) suspected to be related to EV infection. Result of laboratory test had ruled out the possibility. The case involved a 31-year-old female with good past health who worked in Macao. She presented with fever and influenza-like symptoms on May 13 and was subsequently admitted to hospital in Macao. On June 4, she was transferred back to Hong Kong and admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of QEH on the same day because of neurological complication. Examination revealed no oral lesion, rash or any features suggestive of Hand, Food and Mouth Disease (HFMD). Her nasal, throat and rectal swab were all tested negative for enterovirus and enterovirus 71.

                              The spokesman reminded the public that Hong Kong was currently in the HFMD high season.

                              He called on the public to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene to prevent HFMD and adopt the following measures:
                              • Maintain good air circulation;
                              • Wash hands before meals and after going to the toilet, handling diapers or other stool soiled materials;
                              • Keep hands clean and wash hands properly, especially when they are made dirty by respiratory secretions, such as after sneezing;
                              • Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing and dispose of nasal and mouth discharge properly;
                              • Clean children's toys and other objects thoroughly and frequently with 1:49 diluted household bleach, followed by rinsing/wiping with clean water;
                              • Children who are ill should be kept out of school until their fever and rash have subsided and all the vesicles have dried and crusted; and
                              • Avoid going to overcrowded places.

                              -
                              ------

                              Comment

                              Working...
                              X