DoH says boy had deadly virus but recovers

MANILA, Philippines—A 19-month-old Filipino boy has been diagnosed as having had the same virus that’s killed hundreds of children around Asia, but authorities say he has recovered.

Health Secretary Enrique Ona said the boy was the only confirmed case among eight suspected in the Philippines to have the form of hand, foot and mouth disease known as enterovirus 71 strain, or EV-71.

Ona said Friday that the boy had fever and rashes around his mouth and on his hands, feet and buttocks, typical symptoms of the disease. He said he didn’t require hospitalization and is doing well. No other member of his community in southern Davao City is infected.

The recent deaths of almost 60 Cambodian children raised the alarm over the disease. Vietnam and China have also had outbreaks.