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CHILDCARE centre and kindergarten operators have been urged to conduct routine health screenings on children to help curb the spread of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), following a sharp rise in cases across the country.
Deputy Health Minister (MOH) Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said such cooperation is vital, especially in monitoring for early signs of infection on children's hands, feet, and mouths.
“We advise the public not to panic, as preventative measures are actively being implemented, and we already have comprehensive guidelines in place.
“What we need now is community cooperation, especially from childcare centre and kindergarten operators who are at higher risk of HFMD exposure, to at least carry out basic screenings,” Bernama cited him saying after launching the Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) Management of Erectile Dysfunction in Putrajaya today.
Lukanisman also emphasised the critical role of parents in practising hygiene measures and closely monitoring their children for symptoms.
“Early screening can help prevent the infection from spreading to other children,” he said.
According to the Ministry of Health (MOH), a total of 99,601 HFMD cases were recorded nationwide as of the 17th epidemiological week ending 26 April — a staggering 266 per cent increase compared with 27,236 cases during the same period last year.
The ministry reported that 10,421 cases, or approximately 10 per cent, were linked to outbreaks, while the remaining 89,180 were sporadic.
Five states recorded the highest number of HFMD cases: Selangor (27.2 per cent), Johor (9.9 per cent), Perak (9.4 per cent), Kelantan (7.2 per cent), and the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya (6.9 per cent).
Separately, responding to a claim of a possible 30 per cent rise in treatment charges at private hospitals and clinics, Lukanisman said the ministry would look into the matter.
“We currently have no information on this matter, but any concerns raised will be addressed as they arise,” he said. - May 20, 2025