China ordered a nationwide alert in order to control the outbreak of a fatal virus that managed to kill 22 children in the eastern province of Anhui, the news agencies report. The health ministry said in a statement that urgent measures would be taken in an effort to prevent the spread of the virus, known as Enterovirus 71 (EV-71)

EV-71 is one of several viruses that cause foot and mouth disease (HFMD), which is characterized by fever, mouth sores and a rash with blisters. The virus spreads by direct contact with nose and throat discharges, saliva, fluid from blisters, or the stool of infected persons. In extreme cases, the illness can cause brain, heart and lung damage. According to a report from WHO, all fatal cases died of serious complications such as neurogenic pulmonary edema. The overall case fatality rate has decreased from 11% during March 10-31 to 0.2% during April 17-29, WHO said.

Public health experts predict that the number of cases will continue to increase and will peak around June-July, WHO noted.

More than 3,300 cases of the virus have been reported through Thursday night. Besides the 22 deaths, 978 people remained hospitalized, with 58 of them in serious or critical condition, the Chinese health ministry said in a separate statement.

“Health bureaus at all levels must recognize the importance and urgency of preventing the spread of infectious diseases,” the ministry said in its nationwide order, according to the Chinese news agency Xinhua.

Officials believe the virus has spread from eastern provinces to the south. Health authorities across China have been told to report all cases of the virus within 24 hours.

Xinhua also reported that the province has upgraded its public health emergency status from class three to class two. This means the provincial government can quarantine patients and control movements in and out of Fuyang.

There is no vaccine or antiviral agent available to treat or prevent EV-71. As there is no prevention method for this virus, control measures during outbreaks are focused on classical hygiene measures including frequent hand-washing and disinfection of soiled clothing and surfaces. An official investigation into the cause of the outbreak of EV-71 has been launched.