The Department of Health (DoH) has recorded 7,598 cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) from 1 January to 22 February 2025, nearly tripling the 2,665 cases reported during the same period last year.

Despite the sharp increase, DoH Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo assured the public that the situation remains manageable.

“This is not yet considered a high number,” Domingo said in a radio interview on Sunday. “In February 2023 alone, there were already 2,500 cases in just one week, so we are not doing that bad.”

Symptoms of HFMD include fever, cough, colds, mouth sores and blisters on the hands, feet and buttocks. While most cases are mild, complications such as meningitis and encephalitis (brain swelling) can occur in rare instances.

Although there are no specific treatments for HFMD, Domingo reiterated that a strong immune system and proper hygiene are key defenses against the disease.

“Honestly, there are many diseases around us. Our main defense is our immune system and personal hygiene,” he said.

He also noted that the disease spreads through saliva droplets and mainly affects children, particularly those aged four and below, who account for 56 percent (2,069) of the total cases.

The regions with the highest number of reported cases include Central Luzon, MIMAROPA, Metro Manila and the Cordillera Administrative Region.

Domingo urged adults to teach children the importance of handwashing and to limit physical contact in schools and public areas.

“HFMD is easy to prevent — wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. Students should be taught to avoid physical interaction for now,” he said.