Manila, Feb. 28 -- The Department of Health (DOH) 1 (Ilocos Region) intensified its campaign against hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) as cases soared by 717 percent from Jan. 1 to Feb. 15 this year compared to the same period last year.

During a forum hosted by the Philippine Information Agency Ilocos Region on Friday, Dr. Magnolia Brabante reported that 605 suspected and confirmed HFMD cases have been recorded so far this year, a significant increase from 74 cases in the same period last year.

The highest number of cases was reported in La Union (280 cases), followed by Pangasinan (252), Ilocos Norte (49), and Ilocos Sur (24).

The most affected group is children aged five years and below, but the disease can infect anyone through ...