HFMD cases rise in Pangasinan
THE Department of Health (DOH) Region 1 intensified its campaign against hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) following a more than 7-fold increase in cases during the first six weeks of this year compared to the same period last year.
In a recent interview, Dr. Magnolia Brabante of the DOH Region 1 reported that there were 605 suspected and confirmed cases of HFMD from January 1 to February 15 this year, from only 74 cases in that period I 2024.
La Union recorded the highest number of cases this year with 280; followed by Pangasinan with 252; Ilocos Norte, 49; and Ilocos Sur, 24.
Children aged five and under were the most affected, but the viral disease can infect anyone through respiratory droplets or contact with the feces of an infected person.
HFMD is considered self-limiting and typically resolves within seven to ten days, but it remains highly contagious.
She said various factors could contribute to the increased incidence of HFMD, particularly the higher exposure of children to others after the COVID pandemic. (Ahikam Pasion)
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