ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) in this city have been increasing.
Dr. Dulce Amor Miravite, city health office chief, said 90 cases were recorded from January to April 15.
Miravite said five of the 15 barangays that reported infections logged an average of 10 cases or higher.
“The cases are alarming because... the number of cases increased and since early this year we had reported cases,” Miravite said, adding that more cases may be unreported.
Miravite said health centers in 98 barangays were tasked to locate and provide medical intervention to infected individuals to prevent the spread of the disease.
Health experts said HFMD is common among children aged five and below, although anyone can get infected. HFMD is contagious, but the illness is not serious.
Symptoms include fever, mouth sores and blisters in the hands, feet and buttocks.