THE Labuan Health Department is on high alert for imported cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease spreading to the children on the duty-free island, as the school term begins next month.

Its director, Dr Ismuni Bohari, said a high number of HFMD cases reported over the years were imported cases.

“We are on high alert for imported cases of HFMD after the school break.

“The department is issuing reminders to kindergartens and childcare centres to constantly be alert for a possible outbreak,” he said.

Ismuni said the possible outbreak was due to a large number of children returning from Sabah next week for the start of the school term.

A total of 246 cases were recorded in the first six months of this year, with less than 10 kindergartens and childcare centres ordered to close.

The Sabah Health Department recorded 940 HFMD cases and 30 statewide outbreaks up to May 19 this year, he said. – Bernama, December 26, 2018.