Hand-foot-mouth disease surges fivefold, hitting young children hardest in 2024

Health officials have raised concerns over a sharp increase in hand-foot-mouth disease (HFMD) cases this year. Reports show infections are now over five times higher than the same period in 2023. The surge has prompted calls for stricter prevention measures across the country. HFMD spreads through the digestive tract and remains active year-round. However, cases typically spike between March and May, as well as September and October. This year's outbreak has hit children hardest, with 99.3 per cent of infections occurring in those under ten. Among them, children aged one to five make up the largest group, accounting for 92.7 per cent of cases.

The southern region has been the worst affected, recording 18,031 cases—71.9 per cent of the national total. In response, the Administration of Disease Prevention has ordered local health authorities to reinforce hygiene practices. These include regular handwashing, food safety checks, and thorough cleaning of environments, particularly children's toys. Schools, especially preschools, must now follow the 'three clean' rule: clean eating, clean living, and clean hands. Early detection of symptoms in classrooms is also being emphasised to stop outbreaks before they spread.

The current wave of HFMD has far exceeded last year's figures, with infections rising sharply among young children. Health officials continue to push for stricter hygiene controls in schools and public spaces. The focus remains on preventing further transmission through basic but effective measures.