This article has been migrated from an earlier version of the site and may display formatting inconsistencies.
10 Mar 2006
The Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the recent rise of HFMD cases and deaths in Sarawak and Brunei, together with the Ministry of Education (MOE), Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) and the National Environment Agency (NEA).
HFMD is a common childhood disease caused by a group of viruses known as Enterovirus. The infection is spread through direct contact with the respiratory droplets, saliva, faeces or blister fluid of an infected person and indirectly by contaminated articles. Young children, particularly those aged less than five years, are the most susceptible, especially when they gather in close proximity to each other. Hence, outbreaks can be expected in preschools and other institutions from time to time. Fortunately, this disease is typically mild and self-limiting. Very rarely, complications involving the heart and brain could occur and result in death.
In Singapore, a total of 1,461 HFMD cases have been notified during the first nine weeks of 2006, compared to 1,988 cases in the corresponding period last year. The average weekly number of cases is 162 but an increasing trend has been observed. Last week, 314 cases were reported. Majority of these suffered mild illness and did not require hospitalisation.
As a precautionary measure, MOH, together with MOE and MCYS, have alerted all primary schools, kindergartens and childcare centres to step up hygiene measures and check for sick children. MOH has also worked with NEA to intensify their environmental health inspections at these centres.
The Ministry would like to stress the importance of maintaining high standards of personal and environmental hygiene, and to adopt the following good practices:
Wash hands with soap before eating and after going to the toilet.
Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
Maintain good air circulation
Clean thoroughly toys or appliances which are contaminated by nasal or oral secretions
Do not share eating utensils
Parents should consult a doctor early if their child has fever, mouth ulcers and rashes on the palms, soles or buttocks. Children suffering from HFMD should stay at home and avoid contact with other children until they have recovered.
For more information, refer to the guideline on Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases in Child Care Centres / Kindergartens / Pre-School Centres or the list of Frequently Asked Questions on HMFD.