Enterovirus 71

By October 31st, the city had reported more than 44,000 cases and five deaths this year, an increase of more than 65% compared with the same period last year.

One reason health officials are really concerned is the circulation of enterovirus A71, or EVA71.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease can be caused by several different enteroviruses, but EVA71 has a greater association with severe neurological complications, including encephalitis and paralysis.

Most children infected with EVA71 experience mild illness, but a small proportion develop serious complications.