Singapore is no stranger to infectious diseases. And one that has been making its rounds of late is Hand, Food and Mouth Disease (or HFMD).
Fond of children and at home in schools and kindergartens, the coxsackievirus A16 thrives in warm climates and close quarters.
It’s now making a comeback and preschools all over the country are on high alert.
Between rigorous sanitisation protocols and frequent checkups, adults are making sure this disease doesn’t overstay its welcome.
Parents, here’s what you should know about the upcoming wave of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease that’s sweeping the nation.
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease 101
Just in case you’re in need of a refresher, here’s the 101 on this infectious disease.
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is a highly contagious viral infection.
It primarily spreads through bodily fluids, either through contact with surfaces or close contact.
This includes saliva, blister liquid, sputum, mucous, respiratory droplets and excretory substances.
While it is known to infect adults, its main victims are children under 5 years old. Due to our more mature immune systems, symptoms tend to be more severe.
So for parents, if your child comes home with HFMD, be sure to take precaution as well. You don’t want to find yourself sick with the virus too.
Speaking of symptoms, HFMD bears the same tell-tale signs no matter who it infects: fever, sores and rashes, ulcers in the mouth and flu-like symptoms like sore throat, and loss of appetite.
The flu symptoms often precede the physical signs of HFMD. The virus itself goes away after 7 to 10 days.
Rising Cases of HFMD
As of May 3, 2025, the MOH reveals there are now around 61 cases of HFMD reported each day. And that’s not taking into account those oblivious patients who do not know they have it, yet.
This is a spike from the daily cases reported back in 2023 to 2024 which averaged around 50, no more, no less.
Experts theorise that the virus is mutating, slipping through the cracks created by poor hygiene and weak immune systems.
Moreover, Singapore’s consistently warm and humid climate allows the HFMD virus to proliferate.
With the weather getting increasingly hot from climate change, we can expect the virus to continue rising.
Because the virus is known to circulate predominantly in preschools, members of staff are cracking the whip on HFMD cases before it’s too late.
Between temperature checks and strict hygiene codes, they’re taking a page right out of the COVID-19 playbook in their battle against this invisible foe.
Listen Up, Parents
While preschools are holding down the first line against HFMD, parents should also be vigilant about the spread of this disease.
Teach your kids to pay closer attention to their personal hygiene such as proper handwashing.
Sanitise your home as often as you can and encourage your kids to wear a mask while outside or at school.
Remind them not to share food and drinks with others and to use their own cutlery and utensils.
Be sure to check up on your kids as often as you can and to take note of any of the aforementioned symptoms.
Fever usually starts first before you see any blisters. Be sure to take them out of school, just to be safe.
If you have healthy kids, avoid public parks and playgrounds for now where they may be exposed to other infected children.
Treatment for HFMD is usually the standard for most infections including fever medication and adequate hydration.
If symptoms persist or worsen, take them to the emergency room immediately. They may need medical supervision.
Beating the Virus Together
With the school holidays getting closer, it’s all the more important for you to prevent the spread of HFMD disease in your family.
You wouldn’t want those vacation plans to go to waste.
But in all seriousness, HFMD isn’t fun. Despite its quick recovery and low mortality rate, it’s important to stop the spread of any infectious diseases in the country.
Not only for the wellbeing of our little ones, but for all the future children who will one day be born.
Let’s help eradicate Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease from Singapore for good, me fellow parents!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Mamahood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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