The Centre for Health Protection today confirmed two cases of Enterovirus-71 infection involving a year-old boy and a two-year-old girl, bringing this year's total to 22.

The boy came down with a fever and rash on May 7. He was admitted to United Christian Hospital May 10 and was discharged May 13.

The girl came down with a fever, oral ulcers and a rash on May 12. Seven other children and one staff member of the childcare centre she attended also developed hand-foot-mouth disease symptoms May 2 to 13. All have sought treatment from private doctors.

EV-71 is a viral infection usually found among young children and is also a causative agent for hand-foot-mouth disease. It is transmitted by direct contact with nose and throat discharges. May to August is the usual peak season.

There were 12 cases last year, 35 in 2004, eight in 2005 and 16 in 2006. For more health tips click here.