Philippines: Hand, foot and mouth disease increase reported in the Eastern Visayas, with Leyte reporting the most

HFMD is a highly contagious viral disease often affecting infants and children. Most HFMD cases are mild, self-limiting, and non-fatal, but may progress to meningitis, encephalitis, and polio-like paralysis if left unmanaged. It is usually transmissible through contact with nose and throat discharges, the saliva of infected persons, and/or contaminated objects, However, it is important to note that the HFMD cannot be contracted from animals and should not be confused with the Foot-and-Mouth Disease in cattle, sheep, and swine.

Below are some of the signs, symptoms and preventive measures that the public can follow in managing this infectious disease:

Signs and Symptoms:

1. Fever;

2. Sore throat;

3. Feeling of being unwell (malaise);

4. Painful, red, blister-like lesions on the tongue, gums, and insides of the cheeks;

5. Red rash, without itching, but sometimes with blistering on the palms, soles, or the buttocks;

6. Irritability in infants and toddlers; and

7. Loss of appetite.

Preventive Measures:

1. Perform mandatory washing of hands with soap and water, and use of alcohol-based sanitizers, in all opportunities and occasions, especially in the hospital, household, and school settings;

2. Avoid sharing personal items such as spoons, cups, and utensils;

3. Observe Minimum Public Health Standards (MPHS)—physical distancing and using appropriate personal protective equipment—especially when symptoms are present (i.e., properly fitted face mask, gloves);

4. Isolate patients with HFMD;

5. Parents/guardians are advised to ensure that children with suspected, probable, or confirmed HFMD cases should remain at home, refrain from attending school, day-care facilities, or other face-to-face activities until such time that the patient is not exhibiting symptoms anymore, and strictly adhere to the advice of a health care provider;

6. If symptoms persist beyond 10 days, parents/guardians are advised to seek medical consultation immediately, most especially if the symptoms become severe, or is accompanied by nervous system and cardiorespiratory signs and symptoms.