CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — The Department of Health-Central Luzon Center for Health Development (DoH-CLCHD) reiterated warnings against hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) on Wednesday, despite a 30 percent nationwide decline in cases, stressing it remains a “serious public health concern” as in-person classes have resumed. 

DoH records show infections dropped from 1,964 cases between 18 to 31 May to 1,363 in early June. While the nationwide trend signals progress, DoH Central Luzon Regional Director Corazon Flores emphasized that HFMD — a highly contagious viral illness — still poses risks in crowded settings like schools. 

“A decline does not mean safety. Complacency is not an option,” she said. “One infected child can spread HFMD to multiple peers within days. Vigilance remains critical.” 

The DoH-CLCHD attributed the nationwide drop to intensified hygiene campaigns under #HFMDMonth but warned relaxed precautions could reverse progress. HFMD thrives in environments with close contact, such as classrooms and playgrounds.

Health experts highlighted common HFMD symptoms: fever, painful mouth sores, sore throat and blister-like rashes on the hands, feet or buttocks. Preventive measures include frequent handwashing with soap or alcohol-based sanitizers, daily disinfection of shared surfaces (e.g., desks, toys) and isolating symptomatic children until they fully recover.

Schools were urged to enforce mandatory handwashing before meals and after playtime, conduct daily health checks and report outbreaks immediately. Parents should keep symptomatic children home for seven to 10 days. 

“A single lapse in hygiene can undo weeks of progress,” the DoH warned, noting coordination with local governments to monitor high-risk areas.