HFMD cases in Sibu Division drop nearly 49 pct in 2025

SIBU (Feb 7): The Sibu Divisional Health Office (DHO) has reported a significant decline in hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases in the division, with a reduction of 48.79 per cent in 2025 compared with the previous year.

According to the DHO, a total of 1,122 HFMD cases were recorded in 2025, down from 2,191 cases in 2024.

“Out of the 1,122 cases, Sibu recorded 1,001 cases, followed by Kanowit with 64 cases and Selangau with 57,” the office said in a statement.

The DHO noted that HFMD cases tend to follow a two-year cyclical pattern, with higher numbers observed every alternate year and lower numbers in between.

“This trend may be related to acquired immunity among children after infection,” it said, adding that all HFMD cases recorded in the Sibu Division last year were mild.

For the current year, the DHO reported that 42 HFMD cases were recorded in the division between Jan 1 and Feb 1, 2026.

In advising parents as well as nursery and kindergarten operators, the DHO stressed on the importance of maintaining good hand hygiene to prevent the spread of the disease.

“HFMD can persist in the environment; therefore, regular disinfection, especially of toilets and high-touch surfaces, can help reduce transmission,” it said.

Nursery and kindergarten operators were also advised to practise gatekeeping measures, including monitoring children for symptoms and preventing those who are unwell from attending school.