Negros Occidental HFMD cases up 6,300%

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases in Negros Occidental soared by 6,300 percent from January to Feb. 4, according to the provincial health office.

Up to 315 cases were recorded compared to five during the same period last year.

According to the World Health Organization, HFMD is a common infectious disease that usually affects children. It is transmitted through droplets or direct contact with nasal discharges, saliva, feces and fluid from the rashes of an infected person.

Symptoms include fever that may last from 24 to 48 hours, painful mouth sores and rashes and blisters on the hands, feet and buttocks.

In a report to Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, provincial health officer Dr. Ernell Tumimbang said Kabankalan City has the highest number of HFMD cases at 73.

Local government officials were asked to intensify their information drive to prevent the spread of the disease.