The Centre for Health Protection has confirmed seven cases of Enterovirus-71 infection involving one boy and six girls aged three to 15. Four girls have been discharged from hospital while the remainder are in stable condition.

They came down with hand-foot-mouth disease symptoms like fever, blisters or rash May 6 to 19.

The centre has given health advice to the school management. A primary school involved has started class suspension for junior grades for two weeks.

The seven new cases bring the year's total to 32. There were 12 last year, 35 in 2004, eight in 2005 and 16 in 2006.

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. For more health tips click here.