The Department of Health (DoH) has recorded more than 1,300 cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) nationwide during the first half of June.

From 1 to 14 June 2025, the DoH logged 1,363 HFMD cases, a decrease from the 1,964 cases reported between 18 and 31 May.

The total number of HFMD cases monitored by the DoH in 2024 stands at 2,665.

DoH explained that HFMD is “a common viral illness, particularly among young children, that causes fever, mouth sores, and rash on the hands and feet.”

It also warned that while generally mild and self-limiting, it can lead to serious complications in some instances.

To prevent the spread of the disease, the DoH advises the public to frequently wash hands with soap and clean water or use alcohol-based sanitizer, avoid touching the face — especially the eyes, nose and mouth — and maintain cleanliness and disinfect equipment.

Symptoms of HFMD include fever, cough, boils, mouth ulcers, and blisters on the hands, feet and buttocks. In more severe cases, it can cause complications such as meningitis and encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain.