KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has recorded more than 4,000 cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) so far this year, with several schools forced to close temporarily following the detection of infection clusters.
Sabah Health Department director Dr Maria Suleiman said a total of 4,385 cases were reported from Jan 1 to April 19, with 83% involving children under the age of seven.
Kota Kinabalu recorded the highest number of cases with 705, followed by Papar (578), Penampang (450), Keningau (431), and Tawau (262).
“All cases were mild and only required outpatient treatment. No ICU admissions or deaths have been reported,” she said in a statement on Wednesday (April 30).
Clusters were detected in 10 schools, five of which were ordered to close as a control measure.
Dr Maria said most infections occurred at home or in early childhood centres such as preschools, nurseries and kindergartens.
“To break the chain of transmission, immediate disinfection and thorough cleaning are carried out at affected premises,” she said, adding that inspections were conducted in accordance with Health Ministry guidelines.
She also reminded parents to maintain hygiene at home by cleaning toys and shared items regularly and to avoid sharing personal items such as towels, cups or toothbrushes.
“Symptomatic children should seek treatment and avoid attending school or childcare centres,” she said.
More information on HFMD prevention can be found at infosihat.moh.gov.my or on the official Facebook pages of the Health Ministry and Sabah Health Department.
