Nine new enterovirus cases were confirmed in Macao as of Monday, bringing the total number of the epidemic to 383 so far, according to the latest update from the city's Health Bureau (SSM).

These enterovirus cases comprise hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) and herpangina (mouth blisters), but none of the patients was in serious condition, the bureau said in a press statement.

No new EV71 infection was detected, the total number of which reached 56 so far, the Bureau said.

EV71 is a viral infection usually found among young children. It is also one of the causative agents for HFMD.

To date, most of the city's enterovirus patients were children enrolled in local creches and primary schools.

(Xinhua News Agency June 24, 2008)