Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease Surges Fivefold, Targeting Young Children in 2024

Cases of hand-foot-mouth disease (HFMD) have surged this year, with numbers more than five times higher than the same period in 2023. The spike has prompted health authorities to call for stricter prevention measures, particularly in schools and preschools. Children under ten account for nearly all reported infections, with the youngest being the most affected. The latest outbreak shows 18,031 cases in the southern region alone, making up 71.9 per cent of the total. Nationwide figures for Germany are unclear, as HFMD is not a notifiable disease and many cases go unreported. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) estimates between 80,000 and 140,000 diagnosed cases annually, with no specific regional hotspots identified.

HFMD spreads year-round but typically peaks between March and May, then again from September to October. Transmission occurs through the digestive tract, with close contact in schools and nurseries increasing the risk. Children aged one to five represent 92.7 per cent of infections, while those under ten make up 99.3 per cent. To curb the spread, authorities have reinforced the 'three clean' principle in schools: clean hands, clean surfaces, and clean environments. Daily sanitation must now be more rigorous, with a focus on disinfecting toys and high-touch areas. Early detection is also critical—any suspected cases must be reported and managed immediately. Prevention efforts include promoting regular handwashing, ensuring food hygiene, and maintaining clean living spaces. The Administration of Disease Prevention has urged local health departments to step up monitoring and public awareness campaigns.

The sharp rise in HFMD cases has put pressure on schools and health services to act quickly. With most infections affecting young children, stricter hygiene measures and early reporting remain key to controlling the outbreak. Authorities continue to stress the importance of prevention, especially in high-risk settings like preschools.