More than 4,000 HFMD cases in Sabah so far this year

KOTA KINABALU: There have been 4,385 hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) infections in Sabah up to April 19 this year.

State Health director Dr Maria Suleiman said 83 per cent of the reported cases involved children under the age of 7.

Kota Kinabalu recorded the highest number of cases at 705, followed by Papar (578), Penampang (450), Keningau (431) and Tawau (262).

Most infections traced back to homes and early childhood education centres such as nurseries, kindergartens and preschools.

Clusters of the disease have been reported in 10 schools, five of which have been ordered to close entirely, while the others have implemented partial closures affecting specific classes.

Following viral messages circulating on social media about school closures, Dr Maria said these measures were temporary and aim to facilitate disinfection efforts and stop further transmissions.

“The closures allow time for investigations and cleaning to break the chain of infection.

“There have been no ICU admissions or fatalities related to HFMD,” she said in a statement, adding that all cases so far have been mild, requiring only outpatient treatment.

In response to the outbreak, the department is conducting case investigations, laboratory testing, and health promotion campaigns, along with targeted inspections at high-risk premises.

Dr Maria urged parents and guardians to enforce preventive hygiene practices at home, including regular handwashing, disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, and avoiding the sharing of personal items like cups, towels, and toothbrushes.

“Children showing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately and be kept away from childcare centres and public places.”

© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd

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