Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) continues to be a serious public health issue in Malaysia. It spreads fast among children, especially in daycare centres, schools, and public spaces. With proper hygiene and quarantine strategies, HFMD transmission can be reduced significantly. So, let’s learn about how to prevent (HFMD) in Malaysia.
What is HFMD and How It Spreads
HFMD is a viral illness caused mainly by the Coxsackievirus A16 and Enterovirus 71 (EV71). It spreads through:
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Direct contact with infected fluids like saliva, nasal mucus, or blisters
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Fecal contamination, especially among toddlers
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Coughing or sneezing, where droplets can infect others
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Touching contaminated surfaces, such as toys or doorknobs
Children under 10 are most vulnerable.
Key Symptoms of HFMD
Recognising early signs helps stop the spread quickly. Common symptoms include:
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Fever and sore throat
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Painful mouth ulcers
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Red spots or blisters on palms, soles, and buttocks
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Reduced appetite
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Tiredness or irritability
These symptoms usually appear 3–5 days after exposure.
Why Quarantine is Critical for Prevention
Quarantine keeps the infected person isolated from others during the contagious phase. HFMD is highly infectious for the first 7 to 10 days. Children showing symptoms should:
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Stay home immediately
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Avoid public areas, including malls, parks, and schools
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Use separate towels, utensils, and bedding
Isolate until all blisters dry and no fever remains for at least 24 hours.
Best Practices to Prevent HFMD in Malaysia
1. Promote Handwashing
Hand hygiene is the most powerful defense. Wash your hands with soap and running water for 20 seconds:
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After using the toilet
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Before meals
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After coughing or sneezing
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After diaper changes
Sanitize hands if soap isn’t available.
2. Disinfect Surfaces and Toys
HFMD viruses live on surfaces for several days. Clean toys, tabletops, doorknobs, and chairs using bleach-based disinfectants. Do this at least twice daily during an outbreak.
3. Avoid Crowded Places
During HFMD season, keep children away from:
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Indoor playgrounds
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Childcare centres
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Shopping malls
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Public transport
Stay updated on outbreaks from the Ministry of Health Malaysia.
4. Educate Schools and Parents
Raise awareness through:
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Posters at childcare centres
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School announcements
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Social media updates
Train teachers to identify symptoms early.
5. Enforce Sick Leave Policies
Children with HFMD should not attend school or childcare. Parents must follow strict sick leave rules. No early returns, even if symptoms seem mild.
Quarantine Guidelines at Home
Quarantine at home should include:
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Assign a separate room or space for the child
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Limit contact with siblings
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Use gloves when handling laundry or diapers
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Disinfect toilet seats and bathroom fixtures after use
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Maintain good ventilation in the child’s room
Use a designated caregiver, preferably one in good health.
Strengthen the Immune System with Nutrition
Good nutrition can reduce HFMD severity. Provide:
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Fresh fruits and vegetables
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Foods rich in vitamin C and zinc
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Plenty of fluids, like coconut water or clear soups
Avoid spicy, salty, or acidic foods that can irritate mouth ulcers.
Government Support and Reporting
HFMD is a notifiable disease in Malaysia. Schools must:
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Report all cases to local health authorities
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Cooperate with sanitation inspections
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Suspend activities in affected classrooms when necessary
Public health officials may issue temporary closures for outbreak control.
Reintegration After Quarantine
Let the child return to school only when:
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The fever has subsided
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Mouth ulcers and rashes are healed
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The doctor confirms recovery
Bring a medical certificate if required by the school.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long should a child with HFMD be quarantined?
The quarantine should last 7–10 days. Only end it after no fever for 24 hours and all blisters have dried.
2. Can HFMD recur in the same child?
Yes, because different strains cause HFMD. Reinfection is possible if the child is exposed again.
3. Is HFMD dangerous for adults?
Adults can catch HFMD, though symptoms are milder. However, they can still spread the virus to children.
4. What disinfectants kill HFMD viruses?
Use a 1:10 bleach solution or alcohol-based cleaners to disinfect contaminated surfaces.
5. Is HFMD covered under school sick leave policies in Malaysia?
Yes. Schools require students to stay home during an infection. A medical certificate is usually needed to return.