PETALING JAYA: The number of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases has more than tripled so far in 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, says the Health Ministry.
It said there were 99,601 cases reported as of the 17th epidemiological week, a 266% increase compared to 27,236 cases during the same period last year.
To date, no fatalities related to the disease have been reported.
"Of the total cases this year, 10,421 cases or 10% were outbreak-related, while 90% or 89,180 cases occurred sporadically," the ministry's disease control division said in a statement on Monday (May 12).
Selangor reported the highest number of HFMD cases with 27,118 cases, followed by Johor (9,864 cases); Perak (9,347); Kelantan (7,147); and Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya (6,850)
The division also found that 2,649 outbreaks were reported so far, an increase of 49% compared to 1,339 outbreaks during the same period in 2024.
"Of these outbreaks, 578 occurred at nurseries followed by 480 outbreaks at kindergartens, government-run preschools or tabika (292) and 251 at preschools," it said.
The ministry also said 38,285 premises across the country were inspected, including nurseries, kindergartens, government-run preschools, preschools and residential homes.
"Of these, 1,140 premises were ordered to close under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 while 430 closed voluntarily.
"In addition, 220 town-hall sessions and briefings have been conducted across the country by the state health departments (JKN) and district health offices to provide health education aimed at curbing the spread of HFMD," it said.
The Health Ministry also advised parents and guardians to practice prevention measures such as washing hands before eating or after using the washroom.
This includes ensuring toys, toilets and frequently used items are cleaned periodically using soap or disinfectants.
"Personal items such as cups, towels and toothbrushes should not be shared. Children displaying symptoms must seek medical treatment immediately and not attend childcare centres or public places," it said.
Further information on HFMD can be found at infosihat.moh.gov.my and the ministry's official Facebook page.
