Guwahati: A noticeable surge in Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases has raised concern among parents and health authorities across Assam, with Guwahati and Dibrugarh reporting the highest number of infections. Pediatricians say most cases are being seen among preschool and school-going children, as the viral illness continues to spread rapidly.
Dr. Yasin Ali of Health City Hospital, Guwahati, told The Assam Rising in an exclusive interview that HFMD cases have been appearing consistently for over a month. “Although there’s been a slight drop this week, the disease remains highly contagious. It’s caused by the Coxsackie virus and spreads through contact with saliva, mucus, or droplets from coughing and sneezing,” he said. He urged parents to ensure isolation and timely consultation for infected children.
Dr. Rahul Verma, a Guwahati-based pediatrician, also confirmed to The Assam Rising that he receives new HFMD patients almost daily. “Typical symptoms include fever, body ache, and blister-like rashes on the hands, feet, and mouth. It’s mild but spreads fast through close contact. Parents must avoid sending symptomatic children to school,” he advised.
Also Read: Gaurav Gogoi Pays Tribute to Zubeen Garg, Questions Transparency of SIT Probe
Hospitals such as Pratiksha have recorded a marked rise in HFMD cases, with some children facing recurrent infections. According to ICMR, HFMD first appeared in India in 2004, with Assam’s first confirmed outbreak in 2014. Experts warn that the current trend and viral strain similarities with outbreaks in China and Finland may signal wider regional spread. They emphasize the urgent need for awareness drives in schools and public health systems to curb transmission before it reaches epidemic proportions.
