1 month ago
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ILOILO CITY — The city government of Iloilo has reported a noticeable increase in hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases, prompting the local health office to intensify calls for heightened hygiene measures.
As of Jan. 20, the City Health Office (CHO) recorded five active cases of HFMD, nine suspected cases and three recoveries.
CHO head Dr. Annabelle Tang highlighted that most of the patients are infants below 1-year-old.
She urged parents and school administrators to adopt preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, thorough cleaning of shared items and close monitoring of children for HFMD symptoms.
"We also strongly recommend that schools implement strict hygiene measures and monitor students for any symptoms. It is crucial that we prevent the further spread of this disease," said Tang on Tuesday.
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The CHO also appealed to private practitioners to report HFMD cases promptly for better monitoring and management.
Meanwhile, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) documented 21 HFMD cases between Jan. 1 and Jan. 11.
The IPHO said the current figure is a 64-percent decrease compared to 58 cases during the same period last year.
Thirteen towns have reported cases, with the highest numbers in Alimodian, Cabatuan and San Joaquin, which recorded three cases each. Tigbauan and Passi City reported two cases each, while nine other towns recorded one case each.
Most of the affected individuals are children ages 5 years and below.
The IPHO reminded parents that HFMD can be contracted through contaminated objects like door handles, tables or toys.
Local health authorities emphasize proper hygiene, such as handwashing with soap and water, disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and avoiding close contact with infected individuals, as key strategies to prevent HFMD.
HFMD symptoms include fever, mouth sores, and rashes on the palms, soles and buttocks.
The disease is highly contagious and spreads through contact with infected saliva, nasal secretions or contaminated surfaces.
