More HFMD cases logged

MANILA, Philippines — The number of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases continued to increase with 2,525 new infections reported in just a week this month, according to the Department of Health.

Data from the DOH showed that from 37,368 cases on Aug. 9, the number of people who contracted HFMD rose to 39,893 as of Aug. 16. Half of the cases are children aged one to three years, health officials said.

The DOH said it is closely coordinating with local government units to intensify monitoring and prevention of HFMD cases in their jurisdictions.

HFMD is a highly contagious viral disease commonly affecting children below five years old.

Most cases are mild, self-limiting and non-fatal, but may progress to meningitis, encephalitis and polio-like paralysis if left unattended.

The disease can spread through direct contact with infected people as well as droplets or objects with HFMD virus.

Symptoms of the disease include fever that may last from one to two days, mouth sores, rashes and blisters in the hands, feet and buttocks.

Parents were advised to immediately seek medical help once any member of the family shows symptoms of the disease.

A person infected with HFMD must be isolated for seven to 10 days until the fever subsides, and the blisters and rashes disappear.

Health experts said frequent handwashing and sanitation of surfaces and personal belongings can prevent the spread of HFMD.

Meanwhile, up to 192,733 tuberculosis or TB cases were recorded from January to June this year.

As part of the observance of National Lung Month, the DOH on Friday conducted a nationwide active case finding wherein 7,000 people availed themselves of free TB screening, including chest x-ray and tuberculin skin test as well as counseling and health education.

The active case finding intends to find people with TB and ensure they undergo complete treatment.

The health department urged people with close contacts with TB patients to avail themselves of the tuberculosis preventive treatment or TPT to protect themselves against the disease.

Aside from close contacts of TB patients, the TPT is given to high-risk groups such as people living with HIV and those suffering from other illnesses or with low resistance.

Earlier, Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said the DOH aims to lower the number of TB cases or make the Philippines tuberculosis-free.

Treatment for TB is free once a person is qualified for TPT, the DOH said.