The Department of Health (DOH) has logged over 1,300 cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) nationwide during the first half of June.
From 1 to 14 June, the DOH recorded 1,363 cases of HFMD—lower than the 1,964 cases reported from 18 to 31 May.
In total, the DOH has monitored 2,665 HFMD cases in 2024.
The health agency explained that HFMD is "a common viral illness, particularly among young children, that causes fever, mouth sores, and rash on the hands and feet."
While generally mild and self-limiting, the DOH warned that HFMD can lead to serious complications in some cases.
That is why the agency advised the public to frequently wash hands with soap and clean water or use alcohol-based sanitizers; avoid touching the face, especially the eyes, nose, and mouth; and maintain cleanliness and disinfect equipment.
HFMD symptoms include fever, cough, boils, mouth ulcers, and blisters on the hands, feet, and buttocks. It can also cause more serious complications such as meningitis and encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain.