TACLOBAN CITY — The Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) will resume face-to-face classes on Monday after a week-long suspension for thorough disinfection, following reports that five students were diagnosed with Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD).

When classes resume, the university will enforce strict health protocols amid the continued rise of HFMD cases across the region.

In a statement, the EVSU administration said all students, faculty, and staff will be required to bring their own bottles of rubbing alcohol for regular hand sanitation.

“Students and employees shall be checked upon entry if they are carrying a small bottle of 70 percent rubbing alcohol,” the announcement read.

The university also encouraged everyone on campus to bring their own utensils and tumblers to help minimize the risk of transmission.

According to the Department of Health–Eastern Visayas, HFMD cases in the region have surged sharply, with 2,918 cases recorded from 21 to 27 September — a staggering 1,257 percent increase compared to the 215 cases logged during the same period last year.