By Aida Aziz
IPOH: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases have surged in Perak, with 11,087 cases recorded as of May 3.
According to A. Sivanesan, Chairman of the Perak Committee on Human Resources, Health, Indian Community Affairs, and National Integration, five districts reported high numbers, with Kinta leading at 2,911 cases.
He said most cases were reported in kindergartens and preschools, as well as in primary and secondary schools and homes.
“Of the total cases, 9,998 were sporadic, while 1,089 were linked to outbreaks.
“The top five districts are Kinta (2,911 cases), followed by Manjung (1,546), Larut, Matang and Selama (1,358), Kuala Kangsar (874), and Perak Tengah (861),” he stated.
He added that 180 outbreaks occurred in kindergartens and preschools, 70 in nurseries, 35 in primary and secondary schools, 21 in private residences, six in private babysitter homes, four in Orang Asli villages, and one in a welfare home. However, no HFMD-related deaths have been reported so far.
Sivanesan said a total of 4,766 premises across Perak were inspected, including nurseries, kindergartens, preschools, and residential homes.
“Out of these, 267 premises were ordered to close under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 [Act 342],” he said.
Meanwhile, 39 premises opted for voluntary closure.
These closures allow for thorough sanitisation and effectively help break the chain of infection.
Additionally, 150 engagement sessions—including town halls and briefings—have been conducted across Perak to provide health education aimed at curbing the spread of HFMD.
