AMID the excitement of school holidays, parents and caregivers should remain extra cautious as the recent surge in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases reported nationwide underscores the importance of remaining vigilant of the warning signs associated with the illness.
Though it is common during this time of the year, Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC) paediatric infectious disease consultant Dr Ch’ng Tong Wei said that the current scale of transmission is alarming, necessitating heightened awareness and preventive measures.
“As a paediatric infectious disease specialist, I have observed a rise in hospital referrals, concerned parental inquiries, and requests for guidance from preschools and kindergartens on outbreak management,” she said.
Understanding HFMD
HFMD is a highly contagious viral infection predominantly affecting children under five. The illness typically presents with:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Reduced appetite
- Painful oral ulcers
- Rash on the hands, feet, and occasionally buttocks
Most cases are mild, with recovery within 7–10 days. However, a small number of cases, usually linked to EV71 virus strain, may lead to complications such as:
- Viral meningitis
- Encephalitis (brain inflammation)
- Cardiopulmonary complications.
The good news is that these complications remain very rare, she said.
Current outbreak situation
According to the Health Ministry, HFMD cases throughout sees a 266% increase in infections compared to the same period last year.
The number of HFMD cases in Malaysia has risen to 99,601 as of the 17th epidemiological week this year, compared to 27,236 cases during the same period last year. No fatalities were reported linked to the disease.
The ministry said 10,421 cases this year or 10% were outbreak-related, while 90% or 89,180 cases occurred sporadically.
Prevention tips for parents and schools
“Since there is no specific treatment for HFMD, prevention and comfort care are essential,” she said.
The measures to be taken into consideration are:
- Keep sick children at home
- Children with HFMD should remain at home until all blisters have dried and they are fever-free for at least 24 hours.
- This is the most effective way to stop the virus from spreading.
- Hand-washing is critical.
- Practice good hygiene
- Teach children to wash their hands thoroughly with soap, especially after using the toilet and before eating.
- Disinfect toys and surfaces regularly with chlorine-based or antiviral disinfectants.
- Avoid high-risk areas during outbreaks
- Temporarily limit visits to playgrounds, childcare centres, or crowded spaces during outbreaks where transmissions are more likely.
- Avoid sharing utensils, towels, or personal items.
- Provide comfort care for infected children
- Offer soft foods, cool drinks, and administer paracetamol if needed for fever or pain.
Seeking medical attention
According to Dr Ch’ng, most children recover without complications, but consulting a doctor is paramount if the child exhibits symptoms such as:
- Refusal to eat or drink (risk of dehydration)
- High fever (above 39°C) lasting more than 2 days
- Lethargy, irritability, or altered consciousness
Severe cases may require hospitalisation for intravenous hydration, antipyretics, and close neurological monitoring, she added.
Curbing HFMD outbreak is a shared responsibility
The recent rise in cases across Selangor, Johor, Perak, and other states is a reminder that we must remain vigilant—not just in hospitals, but as a community.
We are monitoring the situation closely with its paediatric teams, nurses, and infection control unit are working hand-in-hand to support parents and manage cases safely and efficiently.
By staying informed and adopting preventive measures, Dr Ch’ng believes we can collectively reduce transmission and safeguard our children’s health.
“Together, we can protect our children and reduce transmission by adhering to the guidelines. For further inquiries or medical advice, please consult a healthcare professional,” she added. ‒ June 4, 2025
Main image: Ovum Hospitals
