KUALA LUMPUR: Up to 33,425 cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) have been recorded nationwide this year, said Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah.
He said most states have shown an increase in the number of cases this year compared with the corresponding period last year, with the exception of Sabah and Sarawak.
"On the fourth day of the epidemiology week 29/2018, which was July 18, 722 HFMD cases were reported; while on July 17, 18 premises were closed, involving six child care centres and 12 kindergartens.
"This brings to 419 premises that have been closed so far, comprising 198 child care centres, 197 kindergartens and 23 schools,” he said in a statement here yesterday.
HFMD is a contagious disease caused by viruses, in particular the Coxsackie A16 and Enterovirus 71 (EV71) which are spread by contact with saliva, blisters or faeces.
Dr Noor Hisham said the ministry will continue to monitor the HFMD situation in the country and advised the public to follow the advice of health authorities.
"Parents, as well as operators of child care centres, should bring children with symptoms of the disease to health facilities (immediately) and ensure the proper disposal of disposable napkins.
"Do not bring children with HFMD to public places to avoid spreading the disease; wash your hands after going to the toilet, changing diapers and after touching blisters,” he added. - Bernama