State records 2,040 cases of HMFD, 81 admissions

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KUCHING: The total number of hand, foot and mouth diseases (HFMD) cases reported as of May12 this year is 2,040 cases, of which 81 cases were admitted to hospitals. However, no death is reported so far.

The state Health Department, in a press statement yesterday revealed that in the Epidemic Week (EW)19/2018 from May 6-12, the number of HFMD cases reported in Sarawak was 208 cases, about the same number of cases in the previous week (219 cases).

An upward trend was seen since EW 16/2018 (187 cases) but below the epidemic threshold (Epidemic level) of (365 cases).

The statement added that as of EW 19/2018, Kuching Division has the highest reported HFMD cases compared to other areas with 629 cases (30.83 per cent), followed by Miri – 571 cases (27.99 per cent), Sibu 200 cases (9.80 per cent ), Mukah 109 cases (5.34 per cent ), Serian 101 cases (4.95 per cent), Samarahan 90 cases (4.41 per cent), Bintulu 82 cases (4.02 per cent), Limbang 81 cases (3.97 per cent ), Sri Aman 56 cases (2.75 per cent), Kapit 42 cases (2.06 per cent) , Betong 41 cases (2.01 per cent ), and Sarikei 38 cases (1.86 per cent).

On the HFMD cluster in Sarawak as of EW 19/2018, 151 clusters were reported involving 398 cases.

Out of the total clusters reported, 117 cases (77.48 per cent) were family clusters, 17 (11.26 per cent) pre-school clusters, 10 (6.62 per cent) child care clusters, and 7 (4.64 per cent) school clusters.

From Jan 1 – May 12, 2018, a total of 20 nurseries and kindergartens were closed in the state due to HFMD; 14 in Miri Division and three each in Samarahan and Limbang divisions.

Parents should consult a doctor early if their child has fever, mouth ulcers and rashes on the palms, soles or buttocks, the department advised. Children with HFMD should remain at home until all the blisters have dried up. During this period, contact with other children – including sibling should be avoided until the child recovers.

The affected child should not be brought to any public or crowded places.