Urgent Warning: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is spreading at an alarming rate in Malaysia, and it’s affecting thousands of lives. Nearly 100,000 cases have been reported this year alone, a staggering 266% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This sharp rise is a crisis that cannot be ignored.

As of Week 17, 99,601 cases have been reported nationwide, a huge spike from 27,236 last year. Selangor is the epicenter of this outbreak, recording the highest number of infections with 27,118 cases. Other affected states include Johor, Perak, Kelantan, and the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. The situation is spiraling out of control.

The majority of infections (90%) are considered sporadic, but the real danger lies in the outbreaks. A shocking 10,421 cases are tied to widespread outbreaks, with the highest numbers in daycare centres, kindergartens, preschools, and nursery schools. These are the places where our children are most vulnerable. The disease is spreading rapidly through these environments, and it’s impossible to ignore the dangers posed to our little ones.

Here’s the terrifying reality:

• 38,285 premises have been inspected nationwide. Out of these, 1,140 premises have been forced to shut down, and 430 others have voluntarily closed.
• The Health Ministry has stated that the disease is so dangerous that 1,140 premises were shut down under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988.
• No deaths have been reported… yet. But with the number of cases increasing daily, it’s only a matter of time before we face even more severe consequences.

Immediate Action is Necessary: How You Can Protect Your Child

The government has issued an urgent call to action. If you don’t take these measures seriously, you’re putting your child’s health at risk.

• Wash hands regularly: Make sure your child washes their hands before meals and after using the toilet.
• Sanitize everything: Clean toys, surfaces, and any high-touch items with disinfectant.
• Don’t share personal items: Keep cups, towels, and toothbrushes away from others.
• Keep sick children home: If your child shows symptoms like fever, rashes, or sore throat, don’t take the risk and keep them at home and get medical attention immediately.

The Aftermath: What You Need to Know

• The outbreak is not slowing down. The number of infected children is skyrocketing.
• Daycare centres and schools are ground zero for this disease — and your child could be the next victim.
• Premises are shutting down left and right, and if you don’t act now, it could be your child’s school next.
• HFMD is spreading faster than ever — with new cases appearing daily. This is a public health emergency that we can’t ignore.

The time to act is now. Protect your child, protect your community, and protect your future. Don’t wait for this outbreak to hit even harder. Take action, and keep your loved ones safe from the deadly rise of HFMD.

Source: Borneo Post Online, NST, Majlis Keselamatan Negara

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