ILOILO City – The City Health Office (CHO) has confirmed 53 cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) as of April 26, prompting renewed calls for stricter hygiene practices and early medical consultation to curb the spread of the contagious illness.
According to the Iloilo City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (ICESU), 14 of the cases have been confirmed positive for HFMD, while 39 remain classified as suspected cases.
Of the total, 49 patients have already recovered, while four active cases are still under monitoring.
Three new cases were recorded between April 20 and 26 — two in Barangay Mansaya and one in Barangay San Pedro, Molo. No new cases were logged on April 26.
HFMD is a common viral infection that typically affects young children but can also occur in adults. It is characterized by fever, painful sores in the mouth, and a rash on the hands, feet, and sometimes the buttocks.
HFMD spreads easily through direct contact with nasal secretions, saliva, fluid from blisters, stool, or respiratory droplets from an infected person.
To prevent infection, health officials are urging the public to practice frequent handwashing with soap and water, disinfect commonly touched surfaces, avoid close contact with infected individuals, and ensure good overall hygiene.
Parents are particularly advised to monitor their children for early symptoms and seek immediate medical attention if signs of HFMD appear.
In addition to HFMD, the CHO also reminded residents to be cautious against water and foodborne diseases such as acute gastroenteritis, diarrhea, typhoid fever, and cholera, which could surge with the onset of the rainy season.
The public is advised to ensure the cleanliness of drinking water, food preparation, and their surrounding environments./PN
