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Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Health Department confirmed an increase in Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases across the State, with over 4,300 cases reported since the beginning of the year.

A total of 4,385 HFMD cases have been recorded between Jan 1 and April 19. Most of the cases (83 per cent) involved children under the age of seven.

“All cases reported so far have been mild, requiring only outpatient treatment with no ICU admissions or fatalities,” said State Health Director Dr Maria Suleiman (pic), in a statement, Wednesday.

The outbreak has prompted the closure of several educational institutions across the State. Five schools have been completely shut down, while five others have implemented partial closures affecting specific classrooms.

“These closures are temporary measures to allow for thorough investigation, cleaning and disinfection to break the chain of infection,” she said.

Kota Kinabalu reported the highest number of cases at 705, followed by Papar (578), Penampang (450), Keningau (431) and Tawau (262). Most infections were traced to homes or early childhood education centres such as nurseries, kindergartens and preschools.

The Health Department has implemented control measures, including case investigations, laboratory sampling, health promotion activities and inspections of high-risk premises according to the Ministry of Health guidelines.

Parents and guardians are advised to practise preventive measures, including regular hand-washing before meals and after using the toilet.

They also recommend routine cleaning of toys, bathrooms and frequently touched items using soap, water, or disinfectant.

“Personal items such as cups, towels and toothbrushes should not be shared.

“Children showing symptoms should seek immediate medical attention and avoid attending care centres or public places to prevent the spread of HFMD,” said Dr Maria.

'The Department continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates periodically.

For more information on HFMD prevention, the public is advised to visit the Health Ministry’s website or follow their official social media channels.