HFMD cases in Sabah under control, says Health Dept

The Star

14-05-2025

KOTA KINABALU: The rise in hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases in Sabah remains under control due to swift action and ongoing preventive measures carried out across the state, says Dr Maria Suleiman.
The Sabah Health director said a total of 6,919 HFMD cases had been reported as of May 10 this year.
'Although there has been an increase in HFMD cases, the situation is under control. Nevertheless, with the control measures and precautions we have implemented, the HFMD situation in Sabah is under control and the number of cases is on the decline,' Dr Maria said.
She was speaking after attending the 2025 state-level Nurses' Day celebration and blood donation programme at the main lobby of Queen Elizabeth II Hospital here on Tuesday (May 13).
The event was officiated by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, who was represented by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya.
Dr Maria also shared that they aim to collect 1,000 pints of blood statewide as part of the Nurses' Day celebration.
'So far, Queen Elizabeth II Hospital has collected 52 pints of blood out of the daily target of 100,' she said.
Meanwhile, Hajiji, in his speech, urged more programmes to be implemented to raise awareness on the importance of donating blood.
'I have been informed that the daily blood requirement for Sabah is 300 units and each year, we need about 110,000 to 120,000 units to meet patients' needs. However, to date, only 75,000 units are collected each year,' he said.
Hajiji said collaboration between the Health Ministry and the public sector can raise awareness on blood donation and to attract the public to become regular donors, adding: 'Indeed, voluntary blood donation helps save patients' lives.'
He said since the quality of the healthcare system heavily relies on the quality of the nursing workforce, investment in training, welfare, and career development for nurses is crucial to ensure the sustainability of the country's healthcare system.
'In this regard, the State Government always appreciates and supports nurses serving in Sabah who sacrifice their time and energy for the health of the people. I hope all nurses will continue to strive to improve the quality of healthcare services, particularly in this state,' he said.
The Chief Minister also paid tribute to nurses, whom he said are the backbone of the nation's healthcare system.
'The Nurses' Day celebrations is not just a symbolic event but a significant recognition of the group that serves as the backbone of the nation's healthcare system, our nurses.
'In line with this year's theme, 'Our Nurses, Our Future: Caring for Nurses Strengthens the Economy', the role of nurses extends beyond just being 'patient caregivers' in hospitals, they are also catalysts for community well-being, health educators, and frontline workers in managing health crises,' he said.
The Chief Minister recalled the extraordinary role of nurses during the Covid-19 pandemic a few years back, not only in terms of treatment and monitoring but also in providing emotional and moral support to patients and their families.
"Some had to be separated from their families, spouses, and children in order to fulfil their responsibilities at that time.
"Indeed, they are unsung heroes who remain strong, resilient and steadfast working under various challenging situations, whether in wards, emergency units, rural health clinics, or disaster areas," he said.