Measures Being Increased in Schools Due to the Rise in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Cases
Following a 2.5-fold increase in cases compared to last year, the Ministry of Health has requested the strengthening of hygiene and disinfection measures in educational institutions.
The Ministry of Health announced that approximately 100,000 hand, foot, and mouth disease cases were recorded in the first eight months of 2026, representing a 2.5-fold increase compared to the same period last year, and requested tighter measures in schools.
Significant Surge in Case Numbers
According to data obtained from the infectious disease surveillance system, approximately 100,000 hand, foot, and mouth disease cases were reported nationwide in the first eight months of 2026. This recorded figure represents an increase of more than 2.5 times compared to the same period last year.
It has been determined that the high upward trend in case numbers has continued in many regions over the past four weeks, most notably in Ho Chi Minh City, Dong Nai, Dong Thap, Tay Ninh, Lam Dong, Da Nang, and Hanoi.
Young Children at Risk
It is observed that the disease is particularly concentrated in children under the age of five. Children in this age group attending nurseries and kindergartens account for a large proportion, reaching 87.3 percent of the total recorded cases.
The Ministry reported that case numbers may continue to rise in the upcoming period, carrying the risk of making other infectious diseases, such as dengue fever and COVID-19, even more complex.
Measures to be Taken in Schools
In order to bring the diseases under control, the Ministry of Health sent an official document to the Ministry of Education and Training and the People's Committees of provinces and districts, requesting the establishment of necessary coordination.
It was requested to strengthen communication between teachers and parents in educational institutions, improve hygiene conditions, implement the three basic principles of cleanliness, and regularly disinfect all surfaces touched by children.
Peak Expected in September and October
In assessments made by the Department of Disease Control and Prevention, it was stated that hand, foot, and mouth disease tends to peak every year in September and October.
With the start of the new academic year, it was strongly emphasized that schools must fully and meticulously implement epidemic prevention measures during this critical period.