A Complete Guide
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a highly contagious viral infection that frequently affects young children in Malaysia. The country experiences recurring outbreaks due to its tropical climate, dense population in urban areas, and high-contact environments like preschools and playgrounds. As HFMD cases continue to spike during certain times of the year, particularly from March to October, it becomes essential for parents, childcare providers, and schools to take effective preventive measures. So let’s learn about how to prevent (HFMD) in Malaysia.
Understanding HFMD and Its Transmission
HFMD is caused by enteroviruses, most commonly the Coxsackievirus A16 and Enterovirus 71 (EV71). The virus spreads primarily through:
- Direct contact with nasal discharge, saliva, or blister fluid
- Fecal-oral transmission due to poor hygiene
- Airborne droplets when an infected child coughs or sneezes
- Contaminated objects and surfaces
The virus can live on surfaces for days, making communal environments particularly risky.
Recognising the Early Symptoms of HFMD
Early detection plays a critical role in containment. Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Painful red spots or ulcers inside the mouth
- Blister-like rashes on hands, feet, and buttocks
- Lack of appetite and general irritability
While the disease is usually mild and self-limiting, EV71 infections can lead to severe neurological complications if left unchecked.
Best Practices for HFMD Prevention in Malaysia
1. Enforce Strict Hand Hygiene
Handwashing with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds should be practiced:
- After using the toilet
- Before and after meals
- After changing diapers
- After touching shared toys or surfaces
Schools and daycare centres should install accessible sinks and hand sanitizers at strategic locations to reinforce this habit.
2. Disinfect Common Surfaces Regularly
HFMD viruses can linger on objects for days. Ensure that the following are cleaned and disinfected daily with diluted bleach (1:10 solution):
- Toys
- Tables and chairs
- Door handles
- Toilet seats
- Light switches
Use disposable gloves when cleaning and avoid sharing items like towels, pacifiers, and utensils among children.
3. Isolate Infected Individuals Immediately
Children showing symptoms should stay home for 7–10 days or until all symptoms subside. They should not attend:
- School or kindergarten
- Public play areas
- Family gatherings
Early isolation is crucial to break the transmission cycle. Parents should inform schools and daycare centres immediately if their child is diagnosed.
4. Strengthen Surveillance in Educational Institutions
Malaysian schools, kindergartens, and nurseries must conduct daily health screenings, especially during peak seasons. This includes:
- Temperature checks upon arrival
- Visual inspection for rashes or blisters
- Inquiry about recent symptoms or illness in family
Educators should be trained to detect early signs and to handle suspected cases professionally.
5. Avoid Crowded Public Places During Outbreaks
During periods of high HFMD activity, limit children’s exposure to high-contact environments such as:
- Shopping malls
- Indoor playgrounds
- Swimming pools
- Family gatherings
Use government data on HFMD cases from the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) to monitor outbreak trends.
6. Promote Breastfeeding and Balanced Nutrition
A strong immune system reduces HFMD severity. Encourage:
- Exclusive breastfeeding for infants under six months
- Balanced diets rich in vitamins A, C, and E
- Adequate hydration and sleep
Boosting immunity through proper nutrition helps reduce susceptibility.
7. Educate Communities and Families
Preventive education is key. Communities should conduct awareness campaigns using:
- Posters and infographics in public clinics and schools
- Online webinars and social media
- Talks by paediatricians and public health officers
When families are well-informed, they are better equipped to respond quickly to infections.
8. Enforce MOH Reporting Protocols
All cases of HFMD in Malaysia must be reported to the District Health Office (Pejabat Kesihatan Daerah). This helps:
- Track outbreaks
- Implement quarantines in affected centres
- Inform public warnings and health advisories
Reporting is mandatory for licensed childcare centres and schools.
What to Do If Your Child Is Infected
If your child shows symptoms of HFMD:
- Visit a paediatrician to confirm diagnosis.
- Isolate your child at home for at least one week.
- Keep them hydrated and offer soft foods to avoid pain while eating.
- Monitor for complications, such as seizures, stiff neck, or drowsiness—seek emergency care immediately if observed.
- Avoid using aspirin, which can lead to Reye’s syndrome in viral infections.
Long-Term Prevention Strategy
Malaysia’s high humidity and population density make HFMD a recurring threat. A long-term plan should include:
- Mandatory hand hygiene education in all schools
- Better ventilation in classrooms and public daycare facilities
- Stronger enforcement of sick leave policies
- Government-sponsored mass awareness campaigns
Technology such as mobile apps for outbreak alerts, digital health declarations, and automated disinfection systems can further modernize HFMD management in urban centres.
FAQs About Preventing HFMD in Malaysia
1. Can HFMD be prevented through vaccination?
Currently, there is no widely available HFMD vaccine in Malaysia. However, vaccines for Enterovirus 71 are under development in several countries, and future implementation in Malaysia is likely once approved and tested.
2. Is HFMD dangerous for adults?
While rare, adults can contract HFMD, often with milder symptoms. However, they can still spread the virus to children. Adults caring for infected children must practice strict hygiene.
3. How often should toys be disinfected during an outbreak?
Disinfect toys at least twice daily if they are shared in communal spaces. Use chlorine-based disinfectants or alcohol wipes for effective sterilization.
4. Can HFMD reoccur in the same child?
Yes. HFMD is caused by different strains of enteroviruses. A child can get infected more than once, especially if exposed to a different strain after recovery.
5. Are public swimming pools safe during HFMD season?
Avoid swimming pools during HFMD outbreaks. The virus can survive in water, especially if not adequately chlorinated. Swimming pools are high-risk for viral spread among children.
By taking proactive and collective measures, Malaysia can effectively reduce the spread and impact of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease. Parents, educators, and healthcare providers must collaborate closely to ensure our children grow in a safer and healthier environment.