What is Singapore Flu?

Singapore flu or Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a disease caused by viruses of the Enterovirus genus. The enterovirus species that most commonly cause HFMD are Coxsackievirus and Human Enterovirus 71 (HEV 71).

Symptoms of Singapore Flu

The initial symptoms of HFMD are similar to those of other viral infections, namely:

- Fever
- Throat discomfort
- Weakness
- Aches
- No appetite
- Fussy
- Red spots on the palate that may turn into canker sores

1-2 days later may occur:

- Red, watery spots on the hands, feet, and buttocks area

HFMD can cause severe symptoms such as :

- Dehydration due to children not wanting to eat/drink due to thrush
- Inflammation of the lining of the brain

Symptoms of Singapore Flu

Singapore Flu Treatment

As with the treatment of viral infections in general, treatment is given according to symptoms.

- Heat-lowering drugs
- Warm compress
- Giving large amounts of fluids
- Soft food
- Other drugs as recommended by the doctor

Prevention of Singapore Flu

There is no vaccine for HFMD

So to prevent transmission of the disease, Singapore Flu patients are advised to:

- Not much contact with other people
- Practice cough/sneeze etiquette
- Frequent hand washing with soap and running water can reduce transmission

Material by: PKRS (Hospital Health Promotion) Santo Borromeus Hospital