Johor sees rise in HFMD since January
JOHOR BARU: Johor has seen an increase in hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) beginning January this year compared with 2023 and 2024.
State health and environment committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said there were 1,6867 cases in epidemiology week 18 (EW18) against 1,441 cases in EW17.
'This represented a 17.1% increase, bringing the cumulative cases of the HFMD to 11,551 cases to date,'' he said in a statement.
Ling said the majority of those affected were children aged below six years old with 9,396 cases (81.3%), followed by children between seven and 12 years, with 1,853 cases (16%) and the remaining children aged 13 years and above.
He said there were HMFD clusters in EW18, bringing the total cumulative HMFD clusters to 79, at 39 kindergartens, 20 pre-schools, 18 childcare centres, a primary school and a private residential.
'Some 400 cases were detected from 3,202 individuals exposed to the disease,'' added Ling.
He also reminded the operators of the educational institutions catering for children to take precautionary measures to minimise the risk of infection among children.
'Practice high standards of hygiene and immediately report to the District Health Department in case the HFMD is detected at the premises,'' said Ling.
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New Straits Times
2 days ago
- New Straits Times
#HEALTH: Managing HFMD in children
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The Star
7 days ago
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HIV prevention a priority after 22 cases among varsity students in 2023, 2024
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Focus Malaysia
06-06-2025
- Focus Malaysia
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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
