INQUIRER Files
MALASIQUI, Pangasinan 鈥� The Department of Health (DOH) 1 (Ilocos Region) intensified its campaign against hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) as cases soared by 717 percent from Jan. 1 to Feb. 15 this year compared to the same period last year.
During a forum hosted by the Philippine Information Agency Ilocos Region on Friday, Dr. Magnolia Brabante reported that 605 suspected and confirmed HFMD cases have been recorded so far this year, a significant increase from 74 cases in the same period last year.
READ: Angeles City logs 5 HFMD cases
The highest number of cases was reported in La Union (280 cases), followed by Pangasinan (252), Ilocos Norte (49), and Ilocos Sur (24).
The most affected group is children aged five years and below, but the disease can infect anyone through droplets or contact with fecal matter, Brabante said.
鈥淚t usually starts with fever, sometimes with sore throat, then there will be rashes on the palm or sole of the feet. Then sores in the mouth, which would affect the appetite of the patient that might result in dehydration, hence, the need to monitor,鈥� she said.
While the disease is self-limiting and would eventually go away after seven to 10 days, it is highly contagious, she added.
Brabante urged the public to maintain cleanliness.
鈥淗andwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Practice cough etiquette like covering your mouth when you cough, and zero open defecation while diapers should be disposed of properly,鈥� she said.
The increase in cases can be attributed to various factors, such as the higher exposure of children to other people following the pandemic, she said.