24/07/2025
HAND, FOOT, and MOUTH DISEASE
📌 What is HFMD?
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is a common, contagious viral illness—usually mild—affecting mostly children under 5. It’s marked by fever, mouth sores, and blisters on hands, feet, and sometimes buttocks .
📈 Local Situation
From Jan to Feb 2025, the DOH recorded 7,598 HFMD cases—nearly triple last year’s count. Though numbers have surged, DOH assured the public it’s still considered manageable .
🦠 How It Spreads
Transmission occurs through:
Direct contact with saliva, nasal droplets, or blister fluid
Fecal–oral route (e.g., during diaper changes)
Contaminated surfaces or toys.
⚠️ Symptoms to Watch
Fever, sore throat, loss of appetite, irritability
Painful red spots or blisters in the mouth (tongue, gums)
Rash or blisters on palms, soles, and buttocks
Symptoms typically appear 3–6 days after exposure and last about 7–10 days .
💧 Prevention Tips
Wash hands frequently for at least 20 seconds—esp. after diaper changes or sneezing.
Clean and disinfect shared surfaces and toys
Teach kids to avoid close contact (e.g., hugging, sharing cups)
🩺 Management
No specific treatment—manage symptoms with fever reducers (like ibuprofen), mouth pain relievers
Encourage cold drinks and soft foods to ease mouth soreness
Keep children hydrated and rested
Watch out for dehydration; seek medical care if they stop eating or drinking
🔁 When to Stay Home
Children with fever, drooling, or mouth sores should rest at home until they feel better and are fever-free.
