Attention ! HFMD Cases On The Rise

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases have been on the rise in several states in Malaysia since May of last year. The number of cases nationwide has exceeded the national warning level of 1,150 cases per week, and there are currently 170 clusters causing children to fall ill, leaving parents struggling to care for their affected kids.

Unfortunately, many parents are not well-informed about the disease and are unsure of what to do when faced with this viral infection. To address this issue, Dr. Erwin Khoo, Head of the Department of Pediatrics at the International Medical University (IMU), shared three important facts about HFMD, including its highly contagious nature and the fact that the virus can remain dormant for up to two weeks. Symptoms include fever, mouth sores, and rashes that usually appear on the hands and feet, and sometimes on the knees, elbows, and buttocks, unlike chickenpox which typically produces a rash on the body.

How Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Spreads

HFMD is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through contact with saliva, feces, and fluid from the blisters that appear on the skin of infected individuals. It can also spread through respiratory secretions like coughing and sneezing. Outbreaks often occur in settings with many young children, such as child care centers, preschools, and kindergartens. The virus can survive on surfaces for several days, making good hygiene practices critical.

Prevention about HFMD

Preventing the spread of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is key to protecting ourselves and our communities from this viral infection. Good hygiene practices such as frequent hand washing with soap and water, using hand sanitizer, and properly disinfecting surfaces and toys can help prevent the transmission of the virus. Additionally, avoiding close contact with infected individuals and keeping children with symptoms of HFMD at home until they are no longer contagious also helps prevent the spread of the disease. By following these prevention measures, we can help stop the spread of HFMD and