EV71 Spreading across Asia

Hey all,

I reported on the outbreak of EV71 that started running rampant in China a few weeks ago. At the time, it didn't show any signs of slowing down, and cases were just beginning to be reported outside of the initial province in which the virus had killed 26 children and infected nearly 10,000.

Unfortunately, the disease has not slowed down. The enterovirus has migrated out of China, with thousands of cases being reported in Singapore and Mongolia. Just recently the first fatality from EV71 was reported in the capital of Beijing. Although admittedly the fatality rate is still very low, (36/ 20,000+) I'm just in awe of how fast this thing is traveling. There have been reports of it infecting adults as well as children, making this an even greater threat. I can't imagine what would happen were this to be sustained until the summer olympics. Let's hope China can get a handle on it long before then. Here's the most recent update.

Jon

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-05/14/content_8166791.htm