The number of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HMFD) cases in Northern Mindanao has increased by more than 1,000 percent, according to the Department of Health-Northern Mindanao (DOH-10).

Based on data from DOH-10, HFMD cases in the region reached 1,893 from January to September 2025, significantly higher compared to the same period in 2024. The total number of HFMD cases in 2024 was only 124.

Still, DOH-10 said the situation is not a cause for alarm.

“Increasing atong cases because it shows nga strengthened atong monitoring and reporting system. We are coordinating man sab with our LGU’s, schools, and daycare centers for appropriate management,” DOH-10 Communications and Health Promotion Unit (CHPU) Head, Dr. Mary Anne Sharlene Isidro, said.

Bukidnon recorded the most number of cases with 638, followed by Misamis Oriental with 450, Misamis Occidental with 285, Lanao del Norte with 211, and Cagayan de Oro City with 142.

Most of those who contracted the disease are children five years old and below.

Health authorities explained that HMFD is not a fatal disease, but it can spread rapidly through direct skin-to-skin contact.

DOH-10 advised the public to practice proper hygiene, such as regular handwashing, to prevent the spread of the disease.

“Kung naa ta’y ma-detect na mga luas sa baba specifically blisters sa kamot ug tiil on top of the hilanat kay hilanat is very general man kung naa nay ma detect consult na sa nearest health stations,” Isidro said.