HCMC – Nearly 25,100 cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) were recorded nationwide in the first three months of 2026, a fivefold increase from the same period in 2025, according to Vietnam’s communicable disease surveillance system.
In the southern region alone, 18,031 cases were reported, accounting for 71.9% of total infections. The disease primarily affects children under 10, accounting for 99.3%, with the highest concentration among those aged 1-5, particularly toddlers attending nurseries and kindergartens (92.7%).
HFMD is transmitted via the gastrointestinal tract and is linked to poor hygienic and sanitary practices. Infection rates typically peak during two periods each year: from March to May and from September to October.
The Vietnam Administration of Disease Prevention has issued an urgent directive to strengthen disease prevention. Accordingly, local health authorities will intensify public awareness campaigns and promote preventive measures, with a focus on hygiene. These include maintaining clean environments, frequent handwashing with soap, and ensuring food safety and clean-living spaces.
At kindergartens, authorities are urging strict implementation of the “three cleans” principle (clean eating, clean living, and clean hands), along with daily disinfection of surfaces and toys, and the early detection of suspected cases to prevent further spread.
