Malaysia on alert for deadly kids' disease

Malaysia on alert for deadly kids' disease
REUTERS

KUALA LUMPUR, OCT 7: Malaysia's might close all kindergartens and nurseries in its southernmost state opposite Singapore after a child died of suspected hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), the New Straits Times reported on Saturday.

Singapore closed all child play areas in the island nationlast Monday following the death of two children suspected of HFMD infection.

The New Straits Times said Malaysia was on alert after the death of a three-year-old last Tuesday in Johor and was considering closing all kindergartens, nurseries and primary schools to stop the spread of any outbreak of HFMD.

"The ministry is taking steps," Health Minister Chua Jui Meng was quoted as saying.

"What we want is that Malaysians be aware of the disease and to ensure their personal hygiene, cleanliness of their houses and the toys their children play with are of the highest standard of cleanliness," he said.

Health officials could not be reached for comment onSaturday.

HFMD can be spread through contact with nasal discharge, saliva, faeces and fluid from blisters, and indirect contact with items used by an infected individual.

Singapore classified HFMD as a legally notifiable diseaseon October 1, which means physicians must report all new cases to the authorities.

HFMD has affected 641 children since September 12, Singapore authorities said.

The Singapore government said in a statement on Saturday it will decide on Tuesday whether to reopen child play areas.