[Hinews] SEOUL, South Korea — The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) has issued an urgent advisory calling for strict compliance with preventive measures in childcare and educational settings as hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) cases have surged steadily since May.

The KDCA’s latest figures, covering the 33rd week of 2025 (August 10–16), show the incidence rate of suspected HFMD cases at 26.7 per 1,000 people, a sharp rise from 1.5 per 1,000 in late May (21st week). The increase is most notable among infants and children aged 0–6 years, with a rate of 36.4 per 1,000, compared to 7.1 per 1,000 for those aged 7–18 years.

HFMD, an acute viral infection caused by enteroviruses, spreads through contact with an infected person’s saliva, sputum, nasal discharge, blister fluid, or feces, as well as contaminated surfaces like toys or doorknobs. Typical symptoms include vesicular rashes on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth, along with fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Most cases resolve within 7 to 10 days, but rare complications, such as meningitis, encephalitis, or paralysis, underscore the need for caution.

South Korea is experiencing a sharp rise in hand, foot, and mouth disease cases, particularly among children aged 0-6, with an incidence rate of 36.4 per 1,000 as of August 2025. The KDCA urges strict hygiene measures and medical attention for high-risk cases to curb the spread. / Image Design=GDH AI DESIGN TEAM
South Korea is experiencing a sharp rise in hand, foot, and mouth disease cases, particularly among children aged 0-6, with an incidence rate of 36.4 per 1,000 as of August 2025. The KDCA urges strict hygiene measures and medical attention for high-risk cases to curb the spread. / Image Design=GDH AI DESIGN TEAM
The KDCA recommends immediate medical consultation for high-risk cases: infants under 6 months, children unable to stay hydrated, or those with fever lasting more than two days. Parents are advised to keep children with suspected HFMD away from daycare or public places until fully recovered.
Childcare facilities are urged to enforce stringent hygiene measures, including regular disinfection of frequently touched surfaces like toys, play equipment, and doorknobs, and ensuring handwashing before and after meals and after restroom use.

“Preventing the spread of hand, foot, and mouth disease relies on consistent hygiene practices, such as handwashing and surface disinfection,” said Lim Seung-kwan, KDCA director. “Children with symptoms should receive prompt medical attention and remain home from daycare until they have fully recovered.”

키워드

#수족구병#질병관리청#수족구병예방#수족구병백신#수족구병증상
저작권자 © Hinews 무단전재 및 재배포 금지
ad