ILOILO – Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases in Iloilo Province have plunged by 65 percent this year, but the contagious viral infection continues to affect nearly every locality, with Dumangas emerging as the province’s biggest hotspot.
HFMD is a contagious viral illness commonly caused by coxsackieviruses and primarily affects infants and young children, although older children and adults can also become infected.
Data from the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) showed that 1,021 HFMD cases were recorded from January 4 to October 24, 2026, down sharply from 2,898 cases during the same period last year.
Despite the significant decline, 42 of the province’s 43 local government units, including Passi City, reported infections.
The disease is characterized by fever, sore throat, painful mouth sores, and rashes or blisters on the hands, feet, and occasionally the buttocks.
Other symptoms include loss of appetite, irritability among young children, and general discomfort.
Dingle was the only municipality that remained HFMD-free during the reporting period, after recording just three cases in 2025.
Dumangas topped the provincial list with 131 cases, followed by Cabatuan with 90, Barotac Nuevo with 62, Alimodian with 60, and Miag-ao with 52.
Completing the 10 localities with the highest infections were Passi City with 49 cases, Mina with 45, Barotac Viejo with 39, Lambunao with 38, and Oton with 29.
Other municipalities reporting relatively high numbers included Tigbauan with 29 cases, Santa Barbara with 28, Guimbal with 25, Janiuay with 24, and Leon with 19.
The infection spreads through contact with an infected person’s saliva, nasal secretions, blister fluid, feces, or contaminated surfaces and objects.
Infected individuals are generally most contagious during the first week of illness, although the virus can continue to spread afterward.
The remaining affected municipalities recorded between one and 18 cases, with San Dionisio reporting the fewest at just one.
The Department of Health (DOH) Region 6 emphasized that while there is no specific treatment for HFMD, symptoms can be managed through adequate hydration, soft foods, cold drinks, and appropriate medications to relieve fever and pain.
Parents and guardians are advised to seek medical attention if children experience difficulty swallowing or breathing, worsening symptoms, or no improvement after 10 days.
To prevent transmission, health authorities recommend frequent handwashing, proper sanitation, regular disinfection of frequently touched surfaces, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
They also advise against sharing personal items and encourage proper cough and sneeze etiquette.
Although the province has recorded a substantial reduction in infections, the continued presence of HFMD in 42 localities underscores the need for sustained preventive measures, particularly in households, daycare centers, and schools where young children are at greater risk of transmission./PN
