The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has advised its barangay-based volunteers to be on alert against the threat of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD).
The PRC said HFMD is a highly contagious viral infection that is common among infants and children.
“PRC’s Health Services Team has alerted all our 100+ chapters—and our RC143 volunteers—to be vigilant and report to our Operations Center information from the barangays on HFMD cases,” PRC chairman and chief executive officer Richard Gordon said in a statement.
The Department of Health (DOH) warned the public last week that cases of the viral illness are rising in the capital region.
Some 155 cases of HFMD were recorded from October to Dec. 6 in Metro Manila, according to the DOH.
Majority of the cases involved children, but no death was recorded during the period.
The PRC noted that those infected by HFMD are most contagious during the first week of their illness. Its incubation period is two to 14 days.
Among its symptoms are fever, sore throat, malaise, blister-like lesions on the tongue, gums, and the inside of the cheeks, irritability in infants and toddlers, and loss of appetite.
HFMD is transmitted through contact with nose and throat discharges, saliva of infected persons, and contaminated objects, the PRC said.
The PRC said sanitary practices such as proper hand-washing could decrease the risk of spreading the disease.
Disinfection of premises and all infected surfaces will also help, it said.