THE Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday reported an additional 2,525 cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) in just one week, and the majority is young children. As of Aug. 16, a total of 39,893 HFMD cases have been recorded in the country since January — marking a 635-percent surge from the 5,081 case tally in the same period last year. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa reminded parents to be vigilant, saying, “The disease spreads quickly through contact with contaminated surfaces or toys, as well as through coughing and sneezing. Parents should seek medical consultation immediately if children develop fever, sore throat, or rashes in the mouth, hands and feet,” he said. The DOH reminded the public that preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, proper disinfection of toys and surfaces, and the use of alcohol-based rubs should be taken, particularly in schools and daycare centers where children mostly interact. “During the Covid-19 pandemic, the practice of alcohol rubbing became common. We encourage parents and teachers to maintain that habit. Proper hand hygiene remains one of the strongest defenses against HFMD,” Herbosa added. Thus, the DOH Health Promotion Bureau is set to meet with the Department of Education in September to reinforce HFMD prevention strategies in schools under the Healthy Learning Institutions program. The initiative will include teaching children the proper method and duration of handwashing — with the “Happy Birthday” song suggested as a simple timer. HFMD is typically a mild illness caused by viruses such as coxsackievirus, but outbreaks can disrupt schools and cause significant discomfort among young patients. While most cases resolve without complications, the DOH emphasized that timely medical advice and strict hygiene are critical in keeping infections under control.