Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak in Asia - Warning for Travelers

2023-04-13 13:07:41 By : Ms. Renee Chan
report on the enterovirus outbreak in Asia, highlighting the measures being taken to contain the disease.

Over the past few weeks, several countries in Asia have reported an outbreak of hand, foot and mouth disease caused by the Enterovirus. The disease has spread rapidly across the region, leading to an increase in hospital admissions and concerns among health officials over the potential for a widespread epidemic.
Department of Health | Enterovirus outbreak in Asia


According to reports, the outbreak has affected countries such as China, Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia, with thousands of cases reported over the past few weeks. As a result, health officials have issued a warning to Australians planning to visit these countries, urging them to take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease.

Enteroviruses are commonly associated with respiratory infections and are known to cause a range of illnesses, including common colds, bronchitis, and pneumonia. However, the Enterovirus strain responsible for the recent hand, foot, and mouth outbreak is different and can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, sore throat, rashes, and blisters on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and in the mouth.

The outbreak has led to increased concern among health officials, who are working to contain the spread of the virus. Measures being taken include increased surveillance of cases, quarantining of infected individuals, and public education campaigns to raise awareness of the risks associated with the disease.

One company that is playing a key role in this effort is Guangdong Hecin Scientific, Inc. The in-vitro diagnostics (IVD) company has developed a biosafety level II laboratory capable of detecting respiratory pathogens, including the Enterovirus. The company has also developed the largest database of respiratory pathogens in China, which has proved vital in identifying and tracking the spread of the virus.

According to Hecin, the company is working closely with health officials in Asia to provide the necessary equipment and expertise to contain the outbreak. In addition, the company is providing public education campaigns to raise awareness of the risks associated with the disease and the importance of taking necessary precautions to prevent its spread.

Despite the efforts being made to contain the outbreak, health officials in Asia remain concerned about the potential for the virus to spread further, particularly as it is highly infectious and can be spread through contact with infected individuals and contaminated surfaces.

To prevent the spread of the virus, health officials are urging individuals to practice good hygiene, including regular hand washing, using hand sanitizer, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. They are also encouraging individuals to seek medical attention if they develop symptoms associated with the disease.

In addition, health officials are calling on individuals planning to travel to affected countries to take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. This includes avoiding direct contact with animals, avoiding crowded areas, and practicing good hygiene.

Overall, the Enterovirus outbreak in Asia highlights the importance of taking necessary precautions to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. With the support of companies like Guangdong Hecin Scientific, Inc., health officials in Asia are working hard to contain the outbreak and prevent its spread. However, it is important that individuals also take responsibility for their own health and the health of those around them by practicing good hygiene and seeking medical attention if they develop symptoms associated with the virus.