Tamin constituency steps up prevention of HFMD

SIBU: Tamin constituency has stepped up precautionary measures against Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD).

Its assemblyman Christopher Gira said these measures were necessary and advised parents to be vigilant and take precautions.

“So far, no case has been brought to my attention,” he said yesterday.

“As advised by the Ministry of Health (MOH), children suspected of having HFMD should remain at home and minimise contact with other children.

“Most importantly, parents should bring their children to see a doctor immediately if they feel unwell and follow the doctor’s advice strictly,” he added.

Gira reminded parents that if their children exhibit symptoms (of HFMD), they must be brought to the nearest clinic or hospital for immediate medical treatment and advice.

On July 28, a toddler from Daro, Mukah died in Sibu Hospital from Enterovirus 71 (EV71).

Deputy Minister of Health Dr Lee Boon Chye in a WhatsApp message on Wednesday confirmed that EV71 is a strain of HFMD virus which caused the death of Farhan Lukman, aged two, from Kampung Pangtray.

Dr Lee advised parents to wash hands frequently, keep the surrounding and toys clean besides disposing used diapers properly as some precautionary measures.