State Agriculture and Agro-based Industry, Rural Development and Health committee chairman Dr Afif Bahardin said as of yesterday, the number of reported cases stood at 1,673.

During the corresponding period in 2017, 1,073 cases were recorded.

“For this year, a total of 63 clusters have been reported, which is an increase of 472% compared to only 11 clusters reported in the same period last year,” he said at a press conference here.

The disease is caused by a viral infection specifically from the Coxsackie A16 and Enterovirus 71 (EV71) types. The virus spreads through contact with saliva, blisters and faeces from patients.

Afif said the infections were usually mild with fever symptoms, followed by blisters on the hands, feet, mouth and tongue.

“Almost all patients recover without treatment after seven to 10 days,” he added.

He advised child care operators to always ensure their premises were kept clean.

He also urged them to carry out checks in nurseries and kindergartens to ensure the children do not have symptoms of the disease.

“Children with such symptoms are advised to stay at home to prevent the infection from spreading,” he said.

Penang records 48% rise in hand, foot and mouth disease cases