Penang has recorded 3,990 cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) from January to the 23rd epidemiology week of this year, a 22 times increase compared to last year.
Photo via Motherhood Story
The state’s Agrotechnology and Food Safety, Rural Development, and Health Committee chairman, Norlela Ariffin said in a statement on Tuesday (June 8th) that only 176 HFMD cases were reported in 2021 compared to 1,727 cases this year.
She stated that 119 HFMD clusters were detected during the same time period, which is a 16 times increase from the seven clusters reported last year.
She added the majority of the HFMD cases in Penang were among children aged six and under, with 3,357 cases (88.65%), followed by those aged seven to 12 with 377 cases (9.45%), and those aged over 12 with 256 cases (1.9%).
As a result, Norlela recommended all operators and caregivers in nurseries and kindergartens to keep the premises, particularly the equipment and appliances used by children, clean at all times.
"Kindergarten operators and caregivers must also undertake checks at the entry to guarantee that only children without HFMD symptoms are admitted
“Children with symptoms are advised not to attend school to help prevent the spread of HFMD,” she said.
Photo via Wonder Years
Alamak!
The number of HFMD cases in the country is increasing day by day, so it’s time that we teach our little ones to properly wash their hands when they’re at school!
Please take care of yourself and your loved ones and stay safe!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
