MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) has reported a sharp rise in hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases nationwide, with figures showing a nearly 750 percent increase compared to last year.

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📈 HFMD Cases Spike Among Young Children

DOH data showed that as of August 9, there have been 37,368 HFMD cases across the country since January — far higher than the 5,081 cases recorded during the same period in 2024.

Health officials noted that most of the patients are children aged one to three years old, consistent with the disease’s prevalence among children under five.

While HFMD is generally mild and self-limiting, the DOH warned that complications such as meningitis, encephalitis, and polio-like paralysis can occur if left untreated.

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🦠 Transmission and Symptoms

HFMD spreads easily through direct contact with infected individuals, as well as through droplets and contaminated objects.

Common symptoms include:

• Fever lasting one to two days

• Painful mouth sores

• Rashes and blisters on the hands, feet, and buttocks

Patients are advised to undergo isolation for seven to 10 days until fever subsides and rashes disappear.

The DOH emphasized the importance of strict hygiene practices:

• Utensils and personal items used by the patient must be kept separate and disinfected.

• The isolation room must be thoroughly cleaned once the patient recovers.

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa underscored the need to teach children proper handwashing techniques, especially if they have been exposed to HFMD cases.

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💡 Preventive Measures

To reduce the spread of HFMD, health experts recommend:

• Frequent handwashing with soap and water

• Regular disinfection of frequently touched surfaces

• Wearing protective gear (masks, gloves, gowns) when caring for an infected patient

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🌧️ Leptospirosis Cases Decline

In contrast, leptospirosis cases — which surged following recent tropical storms — are now on a downward trend.

Only 18 cases were reported nationwide from August 17 to 21, a significant drop from the 1,112 cases recorded in the week following storms Crising, Dante, and Emong earlier this month.

Since the rainy season officially began on June 8, the country has reported 4,436 leptospirosis cases.

State-run hospitals have noted declining admissions:

• Tondo Medical Center reported seven new cases.

• National Kidney and Transplant Institute recorded just one.

• East Avenue Medical Center reported none.

To ensure swift care, the DOH has established fast lanes in hospitals specifically for leptospirosis patients.

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✅ Outlook

The DOH continues to monitor both HFMD and leptospirosis closely, urging the public to remain vigilant. While HFMD cases climb at an alarming rate, the recent decline in leptospirosis offers a reminder that strict prevention and early intervention are key to controlling infectious disease outbreaks.