Health officials are monitoring schools in Region 1 closely as suspected cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) rose to over 1,200 this year.

From January 1 to April 26, 2025, the Department of Health – Center for Health Development Region 1 (CHD-1) recorded 1,231 suspected HFMD cases across Ilocos Region.

This is 1,120 percent higher than the 101 cases reported during the same period last year.

La Union logged the most suspected cases with 537, followed by Pangasinan with 422, including 71 in Dagupan City. Ilocos Sur had 144, while Ilocos Norte reported 128.

According to CHD-1, most of the suspected cases involve students six to 18 years old.

As schools prepare to reopen on June 16, 2025, several campuses in Pangasinan are improving hygiene facilities to prevent infections.

“Sa pagsisimula ng eskwelahan natin, kinakailangan pa rin ang pag-iingat, kagaya ng pagsusuot ng face mask, pagdadala ng alcohol at paghuhugas ng kamay at pagpapalakas ng resistensya para makaiwas sa HFMD,” CHD-1 spokesperson Dr. Rheuel Bobis, said.

At Mangaldan Central School, four handwashing stations are ready for student use.

“‘Yung handwashing facility mahalaga ‘yan kaya talagang mayroon tayong ganyan,” Dr. Liza Lojo, the school principal, said.

Parents also support the effort.

“Importante ‘yun sa mga bata para hindi sila magkasakit,” Susana Costales, a parent, said.

HFMD is a viral infection. Common symptoms include fever, poor appetite, tiredness, sore throat, and skin rashes.

Health authorities urge parents to seek medical help immediately if symptoms appear and to keep children's immunity strong.