Kelantan sees spike in HFMD cases, over 11,800 infections in young children
State Health Director Datuk Dr Zaini Hussin said although the total number of cases has surged, a downward trend has been observed from EW17 to EW25.
"The average weekly cases were recorded at 960 during EW17 but have since dropped significantly to below 400 cases from EW23 onwards," he said.
He added children aged six and below accounted for the majority of infections, with 9,912 cases or 83.9 per cent, followed by the 7 to 12 age group with 1,679 cases (14.2 per cent) and 222 cases (1.9 per cent) involving individuals over the age of 12.
"So far, a total of 138 HFMD outbreaks have been reported across all districts in Kelantan.
"The highest number recorded in Pasir Mas and Kota Baru (29 outbreaks), followed by Kuala Krai (27 outbreaks).
"Premises such as childcare centres, kindergartens and preschools are considered high-risk for outbreaks," he added.
An outbreak is defined as two or more epidemiologically linked cases occurring in the same locality within the HFMD incubation period.
Of the 138 outbreaks this year, Dr Zaini said 102 or 73.9 per cent involved such institutions while the remaining 36 or 26.1 per cent occurred at private residences.
Dr Zaini said nearly all HFMD patients recover without the need for specific treatment within seven to 10 days.
"No severe cases or deaths have been reported in the state," he added.
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