The Thai government has issued a public health advisory urging parents to remain vigilant as hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases spike across the country, particularly among young children.
The warning follows a sharp rise in infections reported during the early weeks of the rainy season.
Deputy Government Spokesman Anukool Pruksanusak announced on Saturday (June 28) that the Department of Disease Control (DDC), under the Ministry of Public Health, has detected a significant increase in HFMD cases.
The disease tends to spread rapidly in cool, humid conditions, typical of Thailand’s monsoon months.
“Parents must prioritise hygiene and closely monitor their children’s health, especially those under five years old who are the most susceptible,” Anukool said.
“As the rainy season begins, increased humidity creates ideal conditions for the spread of communicable diseases, especially among young children.”
Between January 1 and June 25, 2025, Thailand recorded 21,315 cases of HFMD. The majority of infections occurred in children aged 0–4 years, with 15,753 cases reported.
Another 4,658 cases were found in children aged 5–9 years, and 544 cases in those aged 10–14.
HFMD is commonly caused by enteroviruses, especially the coxsackievirus. Although many recover without complications, the disease can recur, even in children previously infected.
Transmission occurs through contact with saliva, nasal discharge, fluid from blisters or sores, and contaminated objects or surfaces.
The DDC highlighted that outbreaks typically peak between June and August.
Recognising the Symptoms
Health officials are urging parents to watch for early signs of the disease. Common symptoms include a low-grade fever, painful sores inside the mouth, particularly on the tongue, cheeks, and soft palate, which may cause infants to refuse food or milk and drool excessively.
Red rashes or small, fluid-filled blisters may also appear on the palms, soles, and torso.
Immediate medical attention is advised if children display more severe symptoms such as high fever, difficulty eating or drinking, lethargy, seizures, rapid breathing, or persistent vomiting.
Preventative Measures in Homes and Schools
The Ministry of Public Health has issued prevention guidelines aimed at reducing the spread of HFMD in both households and educational institutions.
For parents:
– Encourage frequent handwashing with soap, particularly before meals and after using the toilet or playing.
– Disinfect toys, eating utensils, and commonly touched surfaces regularly.
– Avoid sharing personal items such as cups, spoons, or towels.
For schools:
– Conduct daily health screenings. Any child showing symptoms should be sent home and kept away from school until fully recovered.
– If two or more students in the same classroom fall ill within a week, the class should close for at least one day for deep cleaning. Continued health monitoring is recommended for the following week.
Anukool also encouraged parents to support their children’s overall health to help prevent infection.
“Children should eat a balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, get 8–10 hours of sleep each night, maintain good hygiene, and receive appropriate vaccinations,” he said.
“If your child shows any concerning symptoms, seek medical care immediately. Early action is key to keeping our children safe, especially during the rainy season.”
