DOH reports Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease cases on rise, may declare an outbreak soon

The Department of Health (DOH) may soon declare an outbreak of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) as cases of the highly infectious illness continue to surge in various regions.

Infectious disease specialist Dr. Rontgene Solante in a Laging Handa public briefing yesterday

reported that HFMD is now widespread, noting that hundreds of cases were recorded last month in Albay province and the Ilocos region.

Solante said that the first outbreak was recorded last October in San Pascual town in Batangas where over 100 children were reportedly infected.

He also said that 155 HFMD cases were recorded from October to December In the National Capital Region (NCR)

“This means HFMD is now widespread that we might have to declare an outbreak soon, especially if it is already affecting many regions,” Solante said

Dr. Solante also said that an outbreak may be declared if the number of cases continues to rise not only in NCR but in nearby regions. Other factors that may be considered in making a declaration are when cases jump by 100 percent from last year and when hospitals are filled with patients.

Currently, Solante said that there is no over-the-counter drug available to treat symptoms of HFMD, except for paracetamol for those suffering from fever but stressed the need for those infected to seek consultation to avoid complications of the illness.

“There is no vaccine for HFMD, so the preventive method, like washing hands, is very important,” he said

Last Tuesday, Department of Health officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire said there is no outbreak of HFMD yet in NCR, although she noted that the cases have been increasing for the past months.