Latest news with #Mouth
IOL News
4 days ago
- Health
- IOL News
South Africa rolls out emergency measures to contain foot-and-mouth disease
The government is preparing to issue new directives aimed at controlling the movement of cloven-hoofed livestock across the country Image: Ayanda Ndamane Independent Newspapers The government is preparing to issue new directives aimed at controlling the movement of cloven-hoofed livestock across the country, in response to the recent foot and mouth disease (FMD) outbreak. South Africa has been battling FMD for several months, prompting key trading partners including Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, and China to suspend imports of meat and related animal products from the country. Earlier this week, one of the major feedlot groups in South Africa, Karan Beef, confirmed a case of FMD at its feedlot in Heidelberg, Gauteng, prompting a temporary halt on purchases. IOL previously reported Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, announced that the government has placed an urgent order for R72 million worth of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccines to fight the disease with the vaccine set to arrive in the country by the second week of June. I can announce, regarding the Foot-and-Mouth disease outbreak, that the Department of Agriculture has ordered vaccines to cover the KwaZulu Natal area, while assessment, as well forward and backward tracing of the outbreak in Gauteng is ongoing. — John Steenhuisen MP (@jsteenhuisen) June 5, 2025 Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ According to reports, the upcoming directives will require all livestock movements to be supervised and to comply strictly with biosecurity measures. Only animals meeting these standards will be permitted to move, in a bid to contain the spread of the disease. These measures are expected to be officially gazetted soon, giving them legal force and reinforcing efforts to protect both commercial and small-scale farmers. "Foot and Mouth has been with us since 2016 and we've seen provinces come in and out of foot and mouth status. It all comes down to adhering to the biosecurity regulations that govern the movement of animals and the auctioning of animals. "It again stresses why we need a track and trace system in South Africa to govern that but we have also put aside R72 million. We've procured vaccines from the Botswana Vaccine Institute." Steenhuisen. The minister underscored the importance of multi-agency cooperation in enforcing the regulations. "We will need cooperation from other departments, Saps need to help us with the movement of vehicles, national traffic, municipal traffic and the border management agency. "All need to assist us in ensuring that we stop the unlawful movement of animals because that's how it spreads. I have now published a set of stringent regulations it's being gazetted in the next few days and we will take strong actions against those who break the law," he added. Wandile Sihlobo, Chief Economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz), emphasised the growing urgency of investment in biosecurity, noting a rise in disease outbreaks across the country.
The Sun
6 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
Parents, caregivers advised to remain cautious of HFMD during school holidays
KUALA LUMPUR: Parents and caregivers are advised to remain extra cautious following the recent surge in Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) amid the excitement of the school holidays. Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC) Paediatric Infectious Disease Consultant Dr Ch'ng Tong Wei said 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 in a statement today. She said the recent rise in cases across Selangor, Johor, Perak and other states is a reminder for the public to remain vigilant, not just in hospitals but as a community. 'We are monitoring the situation closely with our paediatric teams, nurses and the infection control unit are working hand-in-hand to support parents and manage cases safely and efficiently,' she said. She said by staying informed and adopting preventive measures, the public can collectively reduce the transmission of the disease and safeguard their children's health. 'Together, we can protect our children and reduce transmission by adhering to the guidelines,' she said, adding that parents and caregivers should consult healthcare professionals if they have any inquiries. Ch'ng said the highly contagious viral infection, predominantly affecting children under five, typically presents with fever, sore throat, reduced appetite, painful oral ulcers and rash on the hands, feet and occasionally buttocks. She said that although most cases are mild, with recovery within seven to 10 days, a small number of cases, usually linked to the EV71 virus strain, might lead to complications such as viral meningitis, encephalitis (brain inflammation) and cardiopulmonary complications. 'The good news is that these complications remain very rare,' she said. She said most children recover without complications, but consulting a doctor is paramount if the child exhibits symptoms such as refusal to eat or drink due to the risk of dehydration, high fever above 39 degrees Celsius that lasts more than two days and lethargy, irritability or altered consciousness. 'Severe cases may require hospitalisation for intravenous hydration, antipyretics, and close neurological monitoring,' she said. She said since there is no specific treatment for HFMD, prevention and comfort care are essential, with measures to be taken, including keeping children with HFMD 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,' she said. She said other measures are practising good hygiene by teaching children to wash their hands thoroughly with soap, especially after using the toilet and before eating, and disinfecting toys and surfaces regularly with chlorine-based or antiviral disinfectants. Ch'ng said visits to high-risk areas such as playgrounds, childcare centres or crowded spaces should be temporarily limited and avoid sharing utensils, towels or personal items. For infected children, parents or caregivers should provide comfort care such as offering soft foods, cool drinks and administering paracetamol, if needed, for fever or pain, she added. According to the Ministry of Health, HFMD cases in the country saw a 266 per cent increase in infections to 99,601 cases as of the 17th epidemiological week this year, compared with 27,236 cases in the corresponding period last year, but no fatalities were reported linked to the disease. The ministry said 10,421 of the cases this year, or 10 per cent, were outbreak-related, while 90 per cent, or 89,180 cases, occurred sporadically. SMC, Malaysia's largest private quaternary hospital, continues to be a leader in medical innovation and patient care, offering 28 centres of excellence with 810 licensed beds and more than 60 specialities supported by a diverse multidisciplinary team that provides personalised treatment within a holistic care framework. SMC's Children's Health and Development Centre is home to 50 paediatric consultants and surgeons, offering expertise across 26 paediatric subspecialties, including neonatology, paediatric cardiology, neurology, oncology, gastroenterology and endocrinology, the highest number in any private hospital in Malaysia. The healthcare provider also features Malaysia's first dedicated Children's Emergency Department in a private hospital, offering personalised care for young patients. SMC was named the top hospital in paediatric in Malaysia in the Best Specialised Hospitals Asia Pacific Newsweek 2024 rankings and was also conferred with other international recognitions, including top 250 hospitals globally in Newsweek's World's Best Hospitals rankings for two consecutive years and Hospital of the Year (Malaysia) Award at the Healthcare Asia Awards for four consecutive years.
The Sun
6 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
HFMD Cases Spike During Holidays, Parents Urged to Stay Alert
KUALA LUMPUR: Parents and caregivers are advised to remain extra cautious following the recent surge in Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) amid the excitement of the school holidays. Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC) Paediatric Infectious Disease Consultant Dr Ch'ng Tong Wei said 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 in a statement today. She said the recent rise in cases across Selangor, Johor, Perak and other states is a reminder for the public to remain vigilant, not just in hospitals but as a community. 'We are monitoring the situation closely with our paediatric teams, nurses and the infection control unit are working hand-in-hand to support parents and manage cases safely and efficiently,' she said. She said by staying informed and adopting preventive measures, the public can collectively reduce the transmission of the disease and safeguard their children's health. 'Together, we can protect our children and reduce transmission by adhering to the guidelines,' she said, adding that parents and caregivers should consult healthcare professionals if they have any inquiries. Ch'ng said the highly contagious viral infection, predominantly affecting children under five, typically presents with fever, sore throat, reduced appetite, painful oral ulcers and rash on the hands, feet and occasionally buttocks. She said that although most cases are mild, with recovery within seven to 10 days, a small number of cases, usually linked to the EV71 virus strain, might lead to complications such as viral meningitis, encephalitis (brain inflammation) and cardiopulmonary complications. 'The good news is that these complications remain very rare,' she said. She said most children recover without complications, but consulting a doctor is paramount if the child exhibits symptoms such as refusal to eat or drink due to the risk of dehydration, high fever above 39 degrees Celsius that lasts more than two days and lethargy, irritability or altered consciousness. 'Severe cases may require hospitalisation for intravenous hydration, antipyretics, and close neurological monitoring,' she said. She said since there is no specific treatment for HFMD, prevention and comfort care are essential, with measures to be taken, including keeping children with HFMD 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,' she said. She said other measures are practising good hygiene by teaching children to wash their hands thoroughly with soap, especially after using the toilet and before eating, and disinfecting toys and surfaces regularly with chlorine-based or antiviral disinfectants. Ch'ng said visits to high-risk areas such as playgrounds, childcare centres or crowded spaces should be temporarily limited and avoid sharing utensils, towels or personal items. For infected children, parents or caregivers should provide comfort care such as offering soft foods, cool drinks and administering paracetamol, if needed, for fever or pain, she added. According to the Ministry of Health, HFMD cases in the country saw a 266 per cent increase in infections to 99,601 cases as of the 17th epidemiological week this year, compared with 27,236 cases in the corresponding period last year, but no fatalities were reported linked to the disease. The ministry said 10,421 of the cases this year, or 10 per cent, were outbreak-related, while 90 per cent, or 89,180 cases, occurred sporadically. SMC, Malaysia's largest private quaternary hospital, continues to be a leader in medical innovation and patient care, offering 28 centres of excellence with 810 licensed beds and more than 60 specialities supported by a diverse multidisciplinary team that provides personalised treatment within a holistic care framework. SMC's Children's Health and Development Centre is home to 50 paediatric consultants and surgeons, offering expertise across 26 paediatric subspecialties, including neonatology, paediatric cardiology, neurology, oncology, gastroenterology and endocrinology, the highest number in any private hospital in Malaysia. The healthcare provider also features Malaysia's first dedicated Children's Emergency Department in a private hospital, offering personalised care for young patients. SMC was named the top hospital in paediatric in Malaysia in the Best Specialised Hospitals Asia Pacific Newsweek 2024 rankings and was also conferred with other international recognitions, including top 250 hospitals globally in Newsweek's World's Best Hospitals rankings for two consecutive years and Hospital of the Year (Malaysia) Award at the Healthcare Asia Awards for four consecutive years.
BusinessToday
03-06-2025
- Health
- BusinessToday
Facts Prevention Tips For Hand, Foot And Mouth Disease
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 (SMC) Paediatric Infectious Disease Consultant Dr Ch'ng Tong Wei said 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 and rash on the hands, feet and occasionally buttocks. Most cases are mild, with recovery within seven to 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) and 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. Handwashing is critical. 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. Handwashing 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. 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. 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 She said 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 and 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.' Related
IOL News
12-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Spead of foot and mouth disease outbreak threatens South Africa's red meat exports
Agricultural Farming associations are concerned about the impact of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak on the red meat industry. Image: Picture: Justin Sullivan Getty Images via AFP Farming associations on Monday expressed concern about the impact of Foot and Mouth disease (FMD) outbreak on the red meat export industry. This comes as the People's Republic of China has already suspended imports of cloven hoofed animals and related products following Foot and Mouth Disease outbreaks in KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Gauteng. The Department of Agriculture on Saturday confirmed an outbreak of FMD in the province of Mpumalanga and new cases in KwaZulu-Natal. Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz), on Monday said that the livestock and poultry industries accounted for nearly half of South Africa's agricultural economy. 'Because of this large size, we worry about the sector when these industries encounter challenges. One of the persistent challenges of the South African livestock industry is the prevalence of animal diseases,' Sihlobo said. 'We experienced this challenge most severely from 2022 through 2023 when the cattle industry was affected by foot and mouth disease, the poultry industry by avian influenza, and the pig industry by African swine fever. 'Whenever we have such cases, trading partners typically respond by protecting their borders against potential disease spread. Thus, China has temporarily suspended the imports of beef and cattle products from South Africa. We can assume that this is the start of many temporary pauses on imports that we will see from our trading partners.' Sihlobo added that this will reverse the progress observed in South Africa's beef export recovery. 'For example, in 2024, South Africa's cumulative beef exports increased by 30% from 2023, reaching 38 657 tons. About 57% of this was fresh beef, and 43% was frozen beef. The key markets include China, Egypt, UAE, Jordan, Angola, Mozambique, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Mauritius,' he said. Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS) said that they were concerned following China's suspension of imports of all beef and related products from South Africa. RMIS said the decision by a key trade partner highlighted the severe impact of FMD outbreaks and subsequent trade suspensions on the red meat industry. RMIS CEO Dewald Olivier said that this development was a stark reminder of the fragility of the country's export markets when faced with biosecurity threats. 'The ripple effect of this ban is far-reaching, threatening the livelihoods of producers, feedlots, abattoirs, exporters, and many others across the value chain, while compounding the challenges of biosecurity and economic uncertainty,' Olivier said. 'While we respect China's biosecurity protocols, the economic impact on South African farmers and the entire red meat value chain is severe and disheartening. The setback is especially unfortunate considering the landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between South Africa and China in September 2024, which aimed to deepen bilateral trade cooperation.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Olivier added that this MoU, which was celebrated as a key step in strengthening economic ties, included a specific agreement focused on Foot and Mouth Disease prevention and control. 'The MoU aimed to broaden South Africa's export basket with diversified, value-added products to China, reinforcing China's role as South Africa's largest trading partner and opening new avenues for trade and investment,' he said. 'In 2024, South Africa's beef exports experienced significant growth, increasing by 30% from the previous year to reach 38,657 tonnes. China emerged as a key market, accounting for approximately 14% of South Africa's frozen beef exports.' Olivier said that RMIS acknowledged and appreciated the swift escalation of control measures by the Department of Agriculture, including rapid response, containment, and intensified biosecurity efforts. Visit:
