What Caused the Surge in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Cases in Sabah?
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Synopsis
The recent spike in hand, foot, and mouth disease cases in Sabah has compelled the closure of schools to protect children. Health authorities stress the importance of hygiene and monitoring symptoms.
Key Takeaways
- Sabah has reported over 4,300 HFMD cases.
- 83% of cases involve children under seven.
- School closures are a preventive measure.
- Good hygiene practices are essential to reduce infection risk.
- HFMD usually presents with mild symptoms.
Kuala Lumpur, May 2 (NationPress) A significant increase in hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) cases among school-age children in Malaysia’s northern Borneo state of Sabah has led to the temporary shutdown of five schools, as reported by health officials.
Between January and April, over 4,300 HFMD cases were documented, with nearly 83 percent affecting children younger than seven, according to a recent statement from the Sabah Health Department.
Maria Suleiman, the Sabah Health Director and a specialist in health crises, indicated that the closures were a precautionary action aimed at facilitating thorough cleaning and disinfection of the impacted facilities to disrupt the infection chain, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
"All reported cases have been mild and treated as outpatients. No patients have been admitted to the ICU or reported fatalities," she noted, emphasizing that parents are advised to keep symptomatic children at home and maintain excellent hygiene practices by regularly disinfecting frequently used items.
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a mild and contagious viral infection prevalent among young children. Symptoms typically include sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet, often caused by a coxsackievirus.
Currently, there is no specific treatment for hand, foot, and mouth disease. Frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals can significantly reduce your child's risk of contracting the illness.
The disease often results in a rash of painful, blister-like lesions on the palms of the hands, with rashes appearing differently based on skin tone.
The incubation period, which is the time from initial infection until symptoms manifest, is generally between 3 to 6 days. Children might experience a fever and a sore throat, and they may also lose their appetite and feel unwell.
One to two days following the onset of fever, painful sores may emerge in the front of the mouth or throat. A rash may develop on the hands and feet and occasionally on the buttocks.
Sores appearing in the back of the mouth and throat may indicate a related viral illness known as herpangina, characterized by a sudden high fever and, in some instances, seizures. Rarely, sores may also appear on the hands, feet, or other body parts.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the importance of public health measures in addressing spikes in infectious diseases. The recent surge in hand, foot, and mouth disease in Sabah underscores the need for vigilance and proactive responses to safeguard our children's health.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Symptoms typically include sores in the mouth, rashes on the hands and feet, fever, and sore throat.
How is hand, foot, and mouth disease treated?
There is no specific treatment; management focuses on relieving symptoms and ensuring good hydration.
How can I prevent my child from contracting HFMD?
Frequent handwashing, maintaining good hygiene, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals can help reduce risk.
Is hand, foot, and mouth disease serious?
Typically, HFMD is mild and self-limiting, but it's essential to monitor symptoms and consult a doctor if needed.
What should parents do if their child shows symptoms?
Parents should keep symptomatic children at home, consult a healthcare professional, and practice good hygiene.
