Saturday July 28, 2012

New cases of HFMD on the rise, says Health Department

KUCHING: The number of new cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is on the rise.

According to statistics from the state Health Department’s Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre yesterday, the number of new cases this week (July 22-28) was 276 compared to 269 during the corresponding week — an increase of about 2.6%.

Most of the cases were in Kuching, Samarahan, Sibu, Sarikei and Miri.

The number of admissions reported remained at 31, with most of them in Sibu (14). The cumulative number of admissions as of July 27 was 936.

The department said: “At the moment, only one closure order has been served, which is to Tadika Kemas Kampung Penipah in Mukah.

“Generally, the cases are decreasing but still at the outbreak level.”

The department also urged parents not to bring their children to school or crowded public places.

If their children exhibit HFMD symptoms, parents should seek immediate medical attention.

“Parents should also ensure that a high standard of personal and environmental hygiene is maintained at home. Children infected with HFMD should avoid contact with other children,” the department said, adding that lack of awareness among parents had been identified as one of the key factors contributing to the poor control of HFMD.

The department also urged all schools and institutions to continue their daily screening of children upon their arrival at school, and to refer sick children for further assessment by medical practitioners.

For further enquiries, contact the HFMD Ops Room of the Health Department at 082-443 248.

News

Saturday July 28, 2012

New cases of HFMD on the rise, says Health Department