A town in Misamis Oriental has suspended classes in all levels in both public and private schools due to cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD).

In a Facebook post, the local government of Gitagum announced that classes would be suspended from August 19 to 28, 2025.

The local government said that during a meeting of the Committee on Health, parents and teachers have raised concerns over HFMD cases reported in some schools.

Out of the 15 schools in the town, three have confirmed cases as of this writing.

Authorities have yet to determine the total number of cases.

“Three schools nag-declare nga naa gyud sila cases. However, as to other schools, during the meeting sa school heads naa gud kaso dili gasaba ang mga students busa the number we have as to schools nga naa gyud case kay three,” the local government said.

The local government will disinfect schools affected while classes are suspended.

Teachers are required to report to their respective schools during disinfection and turnover of preventive materials.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HFMD is a common infectious disease that most often affects children. Its common symptoms include fever, painful sores in the mouth, and a rash with blisters on hands, feet, and buttocks.