ILOILO – In response to a steady rise in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases, health authorities in Iloilo Province are intensifying efforts to curb the spread of the contagious illness.
As of February 15, 151 cases have been recorded in the province, showing a slight decline of one percent compared to the same period last year.
The Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) revealed that the majority of the cases are in rural areas, with Carles (19), Cabatuan (14), Passi City (11), Concepcion (11), Igbaras (11), Barotac Viejo (six), Lemery (six), Calinog (five), Leon (five), and Alimodian (four) leading the list.
Despite the drop in numbers compared to last year, local health officials remain concerned about the virus’s rapid transmission, especially among children.
HFMD, which commonly affects young children, is characterized by fever, mouth sores, and rashes on the hands and feet. It is caused by the coxsackievirus and spreads quickly through contact with infected saliva, nasal discharge, feces, or contaminated surfaces.
Other municipalities that reported cases were: Barotac Nuevo (four), Dumangas (four), San Joaquin (four), Tubungan (three), Banate (three), Batad (three), Lambunao (three), Maasin (three), San Enrique (three), San Rafael (three), Santa Barbara (three), Tigbauan (three), Dingle (two), Estancia (two), Guimbal (two), Janiuay (two), Miag-ao (two), New Lucena (two), Oton (one), Anilao (one), Balasan (one), and Pavia (one).
In response, the Department of Health (DOH) Region 6 has ramped up public health campaigns targeting parents and caregivers.
“We want to ensure that the public is well-informed about the symptoms, preventive measures, and the importance of early detection to stop the spread of HFMD,” said Dr. Maria De Leon, spokesperson for DOH-6.
Only nine municipalities reported no cases: Ajuy, Badiangan, Bingawan, Dueñas, Mina, Pototan, San Miguel, Sara, and Zarraga.
In areas with high infection rates, such as Carles and Cabatuan, public health campaigns have been intensified, with mobile vaccination units and free medical consultations being made available to residents.
While HFMD is typically a mild illness that resolves on its own, there are concerns about its impact on children’s health and the strain it places on local healthcare facilities.
To prevent further outbreaks, health experts recommend regular handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
Additionally, parents are urged to seek medical attention if their child shows severe symptoms, such as difficulty swallowing or breathing.
“We are seeing a slight uptick in severe cases, which is why it’s important to act early,” said Dr. De Leon.
With the virus continuing to spread through personal contact and public spaces, health officials are also urging the public to remain cautious, particularly in crowded areas.
“Prevention is key,” Dr. De Leon added. “By following simple health protocols, we can significantly reduce the transmission of this disease.”
While there is no specific treatment for HFMD, DOH-6 said symptoms can be alleviated through the following:
* drinking plenty of fluids
* eating soft food and consuming cold drinks to reduce oral discomfort
* taking over-the-counter medications for pain and fever, though a doctor’s consultation is advised/PN
