IPOH: There have been 144 hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases reported among children in Hilir Perak and Bagan Datuk, says Mohd Akmal Kamaruddin.

       The Perak health committee chairman said in the first week of May, 143 cases involved children below six and another involved a child between the age of seven and 12.

       Mohd Akmal said there were seven outbreak areas – six in Hilir Perak and one in Bagan Datuk.

       "The five locations are at pre-schools, day care centres and kindergartens, while two outbreaks occurred at a child care centre," he said in a statement on Friday (May 6).

       "The majority of the HFMD cases in the two districts are caused by the pan-enterovirus," he said.

       Mohd Akmal said the virus is spread through contact with saliva, blister discharge and faeces from an infected individual.

       "The infections are usually mild with fever, followed by blisters on hands, feet, mouth and tongue.

       "Most patients with HFMD will recover without treatment within seven to 10 days," he said.

       Mohd Akmal said the people have been advised to ensure that their children are free from HFMD before sending them to schools or care centres to prevent the disease from spreading.

       "Children with symptoms need to be taken to the nearest clinic or hospital for checks and treatment.

       "Parents are also advised not to bring their children with symptoms to public places, including swimming pools, market, shopping complexes, bus stations and other locations," he added.