How parents can better protect their children from HFMD

Free Malaysia Today

2 days ago

As of May, the health ministry reported 99,601 cases of HFMD versus 27,236 cases in the same period last year – a 266% increase. (Freepik pic)
KUALA LUMPUR : The country is experiencing a significant surge in cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), with the health ministry in May reporting 99,601 cases nationwide versus 27,236 in the same period last year – a staggering
The country is experiencing a significant surge in cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), with the health ministry in May reporting 99,601 cases nationwide versus 27,236 in the same period last year – a staggering
266% increase
With young children particularly vulnerable, parents are advised to take practical measures to protect their families from this highly contagious illness.
General paediatrician Dr Ch'ng Tong Wei shares several reasons for the spike. 'HFMD tends to peak in Malaysia after the March-April heat and into the first half of the southwest monsoon wet season,' she explained. 'Warm, humid weather allows the virus to survive longer on hands, toys and surfaces.'
Crowded conditions in nurseries and kindergartens also contribute to the spread, especially among young children who frequently put their hands and toys in their mouths.
Furthermore, as Ch'ng points out, 'Covid‑era distancing left young children with fewer viral exposures. As life returned to normal, a larger pool of susceptible toddlers emerged'.
Who is most at risk?
Children under age six account for around 80% of HFMD cases in Malaysia, with toddlers aged one to three facing the highest risk owing to underdeveloped immune systems and frequent hand-to-mouth behaviour.
Most HFMD symptoms are mild, lasting between three and seven days. Symptoms include fever, mouth ulcers and blisters, and complications such as dehydration. In rare cases, viral meningitis can occur.
'If your child develops a high fever, seizures, a stiff neck, or breathing difficulties, seek emergency care immediately,' Ch'ng advised.
How it spreads
HFMD spreads through saliva, nasal discharge, blister fluid, faeces, and contaminated surfaces. In warm and damp environments, the virus can survive for days, making high-touch areas at home and in childcare settings especially risky.
At home, key contamination zones include:
stuffed animals and plastic toys;
dining tables and high chairs;
toilet handles and bathroom sinks; and
electronic devices such as tablets.
HFMD can spread easily among those in close contact, especially in situations where utensils or toys are shared. (Envato Elements pic)
In childcare facilities, pay close attention to:
shared art supplies and books;
playmats and water fountains.
Prevention
Protecting your child from HFMD doesn't require drastic changes, but it does take consistency, awareness, and a few smart habits. According to Ch'ng, prevention begins with the basics: hygiene, cleanliness, and early isolation when someone falls ill.
Here are her top recommendations for parents:
Handwashing: Wash hands with soap for at least 20 seconds, especially after diaper changes, toilet use, and before meals.
Toy rotation system: Provide a 'clean box' and a 'used box'. Disinfect used toys before putting them back in play.
Surface cleaning: Wipe down high-touch areas like doorknobs and switches daily.
Ventilate: Let in the fresh air, which helps reduce viral load in indoor spaces.
Isolate if sick: If a child is infected, avoid playdates and keep them apart from siblings as much as possible.
Parents are also advised to maintain long-term hygiene habits such as keeping children's nails trimmed and discouraging finger-sucking or nail-biting.
While the spike in cases is cause for concern, there are many easy and effective ways to safeguard children from HFMD. By combining strong hygiene practices with smart, health-forward home improvements, parents can create environments wherein children feel safe and free to thrive.