Breaking The Chain Of Transmission Of Hand , Foot And Mouth Disease

02 Oct 2000

JOINT PRESS RELEASE BY MINISTRY OF THE ENVIRONMENT,

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

MINISTRY OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND SPORTS

and MINISTRY OF EDUCATION:

To date, there have been four deaths clinically suspected to be related to Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD). Virological investigations are still ongoing to determine the type of virus.

Since the closure of Cutie Kidz Playhouse, on 12 Sep 00, 363 notifications of HFMD have been reported from cluster groups like childcare centres. As at 12 noon today, 19 children with HFMD are admitted to KKH and NUH. All these cases are not serious and have been admitted for closer monitoring.

The government has taken precautionary measures to break the chain of transmission by closing down childcare centres, kindergartens, enrichment centres, play groups, wading pools and play areas until further notice. As the disease can be transmitted directly from person to person by nasal droplets, saliva, excreta, fluid from the vesicles or directly by articles contaminated by secretions, the purpose of such closure is to prevent children coming together and getting exposed to the virus. In this regard, parents should avoid bringing their children to crowded places or to places where other children may come together, e.g. wading pools, playgrounds, etc. These steps will protect the health and well-being of our children in Singapore.

Parents are advised to consult a doctor if their child has signs or symptoms of the disease which are as follows: fever lasting two to three days, sore throat and runny nose, mouth ulcers, rash (usually blister-like) over hands, feet and diaper areas, vomiting and diarrhoea, tiredness and weakness.

Doctors are to refer clinically diagnosed cases of HFMD with the following signs and symptoms to the A&E Departments of KKH or NUH for further assessment by paediatricians: dehydration and inability to retain fluids, clinically ill or toxic-looking, prolonged fever, suspicion of complications of myocarditis, encephalitis, meningitis and pneumonia. KKH and NUH have set up special clinics and isolation wards to handle these cases.

If the child is well enough to be discharged home, parents should continue to practise a high standard of hygiene to reduce the risk of transmission of HFMD. The affected child should be kept away from his other siblings and stay at home till he/she is well. The toys, books, eating utensils, towels, clothes, bed linens and other articles used by the infected child should not be shared with other children. In addition, items handled by the infected child should be washed separately. Surfaces that are easily contaminated or are frequently handled, such as toys, potty-chairs, toilets and diaper changing areas should also be cleaned and disinfected with diluted household bleach (1 part of bleach with 50 parts water for cleaning of general surfaces or 1 part bleach with 10 parts water for soiled surfaces and potty chairs). Good personal hygiene such as washing hands before and after using the toilet, preparing food and changing diapers is also important.

In addition, parents are advised to be alert to any worsening of their child's condition for example tiredness, lethargy, refusal to eat or drink, persistent vomiting and drowsiness. If any of the above is noted, parents are advised to bring the child to the A&E Departments of KKH or NUH immediately.

For children who are well, parents are advised to keep them away from crowded places, and if possible, to keep them at home.

The hotlines of the Taskforce are also in operation from 8.30 am to 6 pm daily :

Ministry of the Environment : 7319184 / 7319761/ 1800-7319222 / 1800-4532222

Ministry of Health : 3259220 / 1800 - 2254122

Ministry of Community Development and Sports: 1800-2580677

(For parents of children in childcare centres)

Ministry of Education : 879 6115 / 872 2220