PETALING JAYA: Having good personal hygiene practices is important to prevent the spread of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) among children, especially at childcare centres.

       While HFMD is generally seen as a mild disease, the reopening of preschools and kindergartens as well as the relaxation of Covid-19 curbs mean that more children are susceptible to the virus, as shown from current rising figures.

       Consultant paediatrician Datuk Dr Amar-Singh HSS said that before the Covid-19 pandemic, the country would record a certain number of HFMD cases among children, but this number had gone down in the last two years.

       “HFMD cases were dramatically reduced over the past two years when we had lockdowns and children were not able to go to kindergartens or schools.

       “In addition, there has been heightened awareness of hygiene in the past two years, widespread mask use and extensive use of hand and surface disinfection.

       “This meant that many children who might have gotten HFMD during that period did not get infected.

       “Now, with the reopening of education services, greater mixing of children and a more relaxed approach to standard operating procedures, we can expect that many susceptible children will get infected,” Dr Amar said, explaining the current spike in HFMD cases in the country.

       “Recognise that HFMD spreads easily via close personal contact – through coughing or sneezing, touching contaminated objects or surfaces and via faeces,” he added.

       Paediatric cardiologist and paediatrician Datin Seri Dr Nomee Ashikin Mohammed Radzi said parents need not panic if their children show symptoms.

       “It is a self-limiting disease, which means it will go away by itself over time.

       “HFMD is a mild illness that resolves itself within a week. There is no specific treatment and usually none is required.

       “Use paracetamol, not aspirin, as directed for fever and any discomfort.

       “Offer plenty of fluids but avoid orange juice, which is acidic and may cause pain if the child has mouth ulcers,” said Dr Nomee, who is from the KPJ Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital.