– According to the latest update issued by World Health Organization (WHO) on 13 July 2012, the majority of cases is caused by EV71, a virus that in turn causes a severe form of hand foot and mouth disease (HFMD / 手足口病)
– The age of the cases range from 3 months to 11 years old, with the majority being under 3 years old
– Official statement from WHO:http://www.who.int/csr/don/2012_07_13/en/index.html
– Official statement from CHP:
http://www.chp.gov.hk/en/content/116/25795.html
*Some Facts on Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD / 手足口病)*
– There are a total of 40 cases of EV-71 infection in Hong Kong this year as of 13 July 2012, with 2 associated with severe complications. No fatal cases are reported
– HFMD mainly occurs amongst children under 10 years old. The symptoms commonly observed include fever, painful sores in the mouth, and a rash with blisters on hands, feet and also buttocks
– The disease mainly spreads by contact with nose and throat discharges, saliva, fluid from patients’ stool, or after touching contaminated objects without washing hands thoroughly
– Whilst there is no effective vaccine, good hygiene practices are the mainstay of prevention
Source: World Health Organization, Centre of Health Protection (Hong Kong)
*We Understand Your Concern*
The Committee has been researching on the situation by exploiting a variety of sources, including official WHO and local government updates, and interviews with Hong Kong expats in Cambodia, with each source leading us to believe that the situation is under control, or even, it has never been as potent as certain media coverage may have depicted. We pledge to closely follow the development of the outbreak and make according arrangements to safeguard your health during the trip.
CHOICE 