HFMD affects mostly very young children, although adults can catch the virus. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, sores, ulcers in the mouth, and rashes on the palms, soles and buttocks.

 While rarely fatal, complications do occur. And the Health Ministry's surveillance shows that most of the recent cases are caused by Enterovirus 71 (EV71), a more deadly strain of the group of viruses that causes HFMD. EV71 is known to lead to complications such as infection of the brain, heart, and lungs.

HFMD, which is transmitted through bodily fluids like saliva, is endemic and outbreaks occur regularly. There is no cure or vaccine for it, so the best way to prevent its spread is to have good hygiene practices.

These include washing hands before eating and after going to the toilet, and covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing.