Nine new enterovirus cases were confirmed in Macao as of Friday, bringing the total number of the epidemic to 381 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.

Among the newly detected cases, three were confirmed as EV71 (enterovirus 71) infections, the total number of which amounted to 56 so far, according to the Bureau.

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 21, 2008)