Keep hands clean in 8 simple steps!
Singapore is on the verge of a outbreak of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), the Health Ministry’s figures show.
Childcare centres and kindergartens are on alert to check each child as he arrives for tell tale signs like mouth ulcers or little red blisters, and taking their temperatures two to three times a day.
Parents of children suspected to have the disease will have to take their kids home, and can only return after their child has been certified infection-free by a doctor.
The disease, which is transmitted through bodily fluids like saliva, is endemic in Singapore and outbreaks occur regularly. It affects mostly very young children, although adults can catch the virus. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, sores, ulcers in the mouth, and rashes on the palms, soles and buttocks.
There is no medicine or vaccine for the disease. There is no cure or vaccine for it, so the best way to prevent its spread is to have good hygiene practices.These include washing hands before eating and after going to the toilet, and covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing.
The enterovirus, which causes the disease, has been particularly active this year. This year itself has seen a total number of cases to 17,435 and one casualty. If you suspect that your child is suffering from the HFMD, please visit the Doctor immediately!