Symtoms and Treatment for Iron Deficency

Symptoms and Treatment for Iron Deficency are important because early recognition helps prevent serious health complications such as fatigue, weakness, and poor growth. Proper treatment, including a balanced diet and medical care, restores healthy red blood cell levels and supports overall well-being.

By Ph. Ms. Saw

Symtoms and Treatment for Iron Deficency: What is Iron Deficency (Anemia)?

• Low red blood cells or hemoglobin: This means the blood has fewer cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. Without enough red blood cells, the body’s organs and tissues cannot function at their best.

• Leads to reduced oxygen delivery in the body: As a result, tissues and organs receive less oxygen, causing tiredness and weakness. Over time, this can affect concentration, physical performance, and overall health.

• Iron Deficiency Anemia = Not enough iron to make healthy red blood cells: Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, and without it, new red blood cells cannot form properly. This condition is the most common type of anemia, especially in children and women.

Symtoms and Treatment for Iron Deficency: Signs & Symptoms

(Often subtle at first)

• Pale skin, lips, eyelids: Reduced hemoglobin causes paleness, especially noticeable on lips and eyelids. Parents may notice their child looking “washed out” or unusually pale.

• Fatigue, low energy, more naps: The body becomes tired easily due to lack of oxygen to muscles and brain. Children may prefer resting or playing less actively than usual.

• Irritability or fussiness: Children may become cranky or restless because of low energy levels. They may also find it hard to focus or enjoy daily activities.

• Poor appetite: Loss of appetite is common as the body’s metabolism slows down. This can further worsen the deficiency if nutrient intake decreases.

• Brittle nails or hair loss: Insufficient iron affects the health and strength of nails and hair. In severe cases, nails may become spoon-shaped or hair may thin noticeably.

• Severe: Rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath: The heart works harder to deliver oxygen, leading to these more serious symptoms. If left untreated, it can cause heart strain and developmental delays.

Symtoms and Treatment for Iron Deficency: Who’s at Risk?

• Premature or low birth weight babies: They are born with lower iron stores and may deplete them faster. These babies often need additional iron supplementation or iron-rich weaning foods earlier.

• Exclusively breastfed > 6 months without iron-rich solids: Breast milk alone may not provide enough iron after six months of age. Introducing iron-rich foods like pureed meat, eggs, or fortified cereals is important at this stage.

• Toddlers with poor diet (less meat, fish, low meat variety): A limited diet can cause insufficient iron intake needed for growth and energy. Picky eaters or children on restrictive diets are particularly at risk.

• Children with chronic infections, gut issues, or parasites (e.g., hookworm): These conditions reduce iron absorption or cause iron loss from the body. Treating the root cause is essential to prevent recurring deficiency.

Symtoms and Treatment for Iron Deficency: Treatment for Iron Deficiency

• Iron-rich foods: Include red meat, fish, poultry, beans, spinach, and fortified cereals to increase iron intake naturally. Regularly rotating these foods in meals helps maintain healthy iron levels.

• Vitamin C-rich foods: Pairing foods like oranges, tomatoes, or guava with iron sources helps boost absorption. A glass of fruit juice or fresh fruit alongside meals can make a big difference.

• Iron supplements: May be prescribed by healthcare providers for moderate to severe deficiency. It’s important to take them as directed to avoid stomach upset or constipation.

• Treat underlying causes: Address infections, intestinal issues, or poor diet that contribute to low iron levels. Deworming, dietary counseling, or medical treatment may be required depending on the cause.

• Regular check-ups: Blood tests can help monitor hemoglobin and ensure treatment is effective. Follow-up visits also help adjust dosage and prevent future deficiencies

Understanding the symptoms and treatment for iron deficiency anemia is key to maintaining good health and preventing long-term complications. With early detection, proper nutrition, and guidance from healthcare professionals or pharmacists, anemia can be effectively managed and prevented for a healthier, more energetic life.

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important not to ignore them. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for professional advice — they can guide you on managing symptoms, hormone therapy options, and lifestyle changes to help you feel your best during this transition.

Check over 200+ Health Lane Family Pharmacy stores HERE as we’re delivering wholesome HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS for you & your family’s health needs.

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How to Reduce Sugar Cravings?

By Ph. Ms. Saw

Sugar cravings are common, and they can often feel overwhelming. But the good news is that reducing sugar intake can have a major positive impact on your heart health, as excessive sugar is linked to conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Here are some simple strategies to help you manage and reduce your sugar cravings:

1. Avoid Hidden Sugars

Many processed foods contain added sugars. Read labels carefully for terms like high-fructose corn syrup, cane sugar, or honey. Reducing processed foods helps cut sugar and supports heart health.

2. Eat More Fiber-Rich Foods

Fiber helps stabilize blood sugar levels, which can prevent the energy dips that lead to sugar cravings. Include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in your meals for better blood sugar control and heart health.

3. Stay Hydrated

Sometimes, dehydration can be mistaken for hunger. Drink plenty of water or herbal teas throughout the day to reduce unnecessary cravings and help you stay hydrated.

Reducing sugar cravings is a process, but it’s worth it for your heart. By eating fiber-rich foods, staying hydrated, and managing stress, you’ll be on your way to healthier habits. Start small and build these strategies into your daily routine to experience long-lasting benefits for both your health and your heart.

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important not to ignore them. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for professional advice — they can guide you on managing symptoms, hormone therapy options, and lifestyle changes to help you feel your best during this transition.

Check over 200+ Health Lane Family Pharmacy stores HERE as we’re delivering wholesome HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS for you & your family’s health needs.

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5 Tips for Parents to Stay Healthy:

Being a parent is a full-time job and finding time for yourself often feels impossible. But staying healthy isn’t selfish, it’s necessary! A healthy parent means a happy family.

Here are 5 tips to help Parents to Stay Healthy with a stress-ful lifestyle:

1. Schedule “Me Time” Like an Appointment
Even 10-15 minutes a day for yourself can recharge your energy. Use that time to stretch, meditate, go for a walk, or just breathe.

2. Meal Prep and Eat Smart
Plan simple, healthy meals for the week. Involve your kids in grocery shopping or cooking—it saves time and teaches them good habits too!

3. Move Together
Exercise doesn’t have to be at the gym. Have a dance party, go for a bike ride, or take a walk in the park with your kids.

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4. Prioritize Sleep
Lack of sleep affects your mood, energy, and health. Try to go to bed earlier when the kids sleep, and limit screen time before bedtime.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Share responsibilities with your partner or family members. It’s okay to ask for support—you don’t have to do it all alone.

Remember: A healthy parent can give more love, care, and time to their children.

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important not to ignore them. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for professional advice — they can guide you on managing symptoms, hormone therapy options, and lifestyle changes to help you feel your best during this transition.

Need assistance? Consult with our pharmacist in Mama & Babies Telegram

or

Check over 200+ Health Lane Family Pharmacy stores HERE as we’re delivering wholesome HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS for you & your family’s health needs.

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5 simple steps to Maintain Healthy Blood Pressure:

We show you below on how to maintain healthy blood pressure.

Your heart works hard every day, so it’s important to take care of it, especially when it comes to blood pressure. High blood pressure (hypertension) is often called a silent killer because it shows no symptoms but increases your risk of heart disease and stroke.

1. Eat a Balanced Diet
Choose more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy. Reduce your salt (sodium) intake as too much salt can raise your blood pressure.

2. Move Your body
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This could include walking, cycling, swimming, or even dancing. Exercise helps your heart become stronger and more efficient.

3. Manage Your Stress
Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure, so managing stress effectively is a crucial aspect of heart health. Stress releases hormones that can raise blood pressure, so finding ways to reduce it is essential. Practice deep breathing, meditation, or even short breaks during a busy day to calm your mind.

4. Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking
Too much alcohol and smoking both damage your blood vessels and heart. Try to limit alcohol and seek help to quit smoking if needed.

5. Monitor Your Blood Pressure
Check your blood pressure regularly, especially if you have a family history of hypertension. Early detection of high blood pressure allows you to manage it before it becomes a serious issue. Since high blood pressure often has no obvious symptoms, regular checkups with your doctor or using a home blood pressure monitor is important for staying on top of your health.

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important not to ignore them. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for professional advice — they can guide you on managing symptoms, hormone therapy options, and lifestyle changes to help you feel your best during this transition.

Need assistance? Consult with our pharmacist in Mama & Babies Telegram

or

Check over 200+ Health Lane Family Pharmacy stores HERE as we’re delivering wholesome HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS for you & your family’s health needs.

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Baby Vaccination and Immunization Schedule

Vaccinations are one of the most important ways to protect your little one from serious illnesses during their early years. In Malaysia, babies receive a series of vaccines from birth to 2 years old to help build strong immunity against harmful diseases. This guide will walk you through the recommended vaccines, their benefits, and the right time to get them—so you can ensure your child grows up healthy and protected.

Below shows Baby Vaccination and Immunization Schedule:

Baby Vaccination and Immunization Schedule (Birth to 2 Years)

• At Birth
  • BCG (Bacillus Calmette–Guérin) – Protects against tuberculosis (TB), especially severe forms like TB meningitis and miliary TB in infants.
  • Hepatitis B Vaccine – 1st Dose – Prevents hepatitis B virus infection, which can lead to liver disease and liver cancer.

• On 2 months old:

  • DTaP – 1st Dose

  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Acellular Pertussis Vaccine

  • Protects against three serious bacterial infections:

  • Diphtheria: causes throat infection and breathing problems

  • Tetanus: causes painful muscle stiffness and spasms

  • Pertussis (Whooping Cough): causes severe coughing fits

Baby Vaccination and Immunization Schedule (3 to 4 months)

• On 3 months old: 
  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis Vaccine (2nd dose) — DTaP: Diphtheria toxoid, Tetanus toxoid, and acellular Pertussis
  • Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine (2nd dose) — IPV: Inactivated Poliovirus
  • Haemophilus influenzae type B Vaccine (2nd dose) — Hib: Haemophilus influenzae type B conjugate vaccine
  • Hepatitis B Vaccine (3rd dose) — Hep B: Recombinant Hepatitis B surface antigen vaccine
• On 4 months old:
  • Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (1st dose) — PCV: Streptococcus pneumoniae conjugate vaccine

Rotavirus Vaccine (2nd dose) (optional) — Rotavirus: Live attenuated oral rotavirus vaccine

• On 5 months old:
  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis Vaccine (3rd dose) — DTaP: Diphtheria toxoid, Tetanus toxoid, and acellular Pertussis
  • Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine (3rd dose) — IPV: Inactivated Poliovirus
  • Haemophilus influenzae type B Vaccine (3rd dose) — Hib: Haemophilus influenzae type B conjugate vaccine
  • Hepatitis B Vaccine (4th dose) — Hep B: Recombinant Hepatitis B surface antigen vaccine
• On 6 months old:
  • Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (2nd dose) — PCV: Streptococcus pneumoniae conjugate vaccine
  • Measles Vaccine (1st dose) — Measles: Live attenuated measles virus vaccine (administered only in Sabah)

• On 9 months old:
  • Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Vaccine (1st dose) — MMR: Live attenuated measles, mumps, and rubella virus vaccine
  • Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine (1st dose) — JE: Inactivated Japanese encephalitis virus vaccine (administered only in Sarawak)
• On 12 months old:
  • Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Vaccine (2nd dose) — MMR: Live attenuated measles, mumps, and rubella virus vaccine
  • Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine (1st dose) — Varicella: Live attenuated varicella-zoster virus vaccine (optional)

• On 15 months old: PCV booster, which protects against pneumococcal infections (e.g. pneumonia, meningitis, ear infections)
• On 18 months old: DTaP-IPV-Hib-Hep B booster  that covers six diseases, such as Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (whooping cough), Polio, Haemophilus influenzae type B (meningitis risk), Hepatitis B (liver infection)
•  On 21 months (Sarawak only): JE booster, helps protect against Japanese Encephalitis (mosquito-borne brain infection)

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important not to ignore them. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for professional advice — they can guide you on managing symptoms, hormone therapy options, and lifestyle changes to help you feel your best during this transition.

Need assistance? Consult with our pharmacist in Mama & Babies Telegram

or

Check over 200+ Health Lane Family Pharmacy stores HERE as we’re delivering wholesome HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS for you & your family’s health needs.

The post Baby Vaccination and Immunization Schedule appeared first on Health Lane Family Pharmacy.

5 Tips to Manage Postpartum Hair Loss

Postpartum hair loss, also known as postpartum shedding, is a completely normal condition that many mothers experience a few weeks to months after giving birth. It happens due to the sudden drop in hormone levels, particularly estrogen, after delivery.

Here are 5 tips to manage postpartum hair loss:

1. Avoid Chemical Treatments:

Your hair is extra delicate during postpartum shedding. Harsh chemicals from dyeing, perming, or relaxing can make breakage worse and slow down recovery. During this time, your hair is extra delicate—more prone to breakage, dryness, and thinning. Applying harsh chemicals like hair dye, bleach, perming solutions, or chemical straighteners can stress your scalp even more and slow down the healing process.

• Stick to gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners

• Use lightweight oils or serums to keep hair soft and moisturized

• Try loose hairstyles to avoid tension on the roots

2. Gentle Hair Care:

Be gentle on your hair by using the right shampoo can make a major difference in how your hair and scalp feel and recover and reduce postpartum hair loss:

• Protects the scalp: Harsh shampoos strip away natural oils, but gentle formulas help maintain a healthy scalp, which is essential for regrowth.
• Minimizes damage: Nourishing ingredients reinforce the hair shaft, reducing breakage and split ends.
• Reduces inflammation: Botanicals like chamomile, aloe vera, and calendula calm irritation, which can happen when the scalp is adjusting post-baby.
• Supports new growth: Shampoos enriched with biotin, caffeine, or keratin can gently encourage hair growth without overwhelming sensitive follicles.

3. Stress Management – reduce postpartum hair loss:

You’re hitting a powerful trio of self-care tools! Breathing exercises, cold showers, and meditation work beautifully—especially for postpartum recovery or everyday stress management. The postpartum phase is tender and transformative. Managing stress isn’t just about peace of mind—it’s an act of care that shows up in your skin, your strands, and your spirit.

4. Use of hair tonic/supplementation

Postpartum hair loss is totally normal, but that doesn’t mean you can’t give your hair a little extra help as it recovers. Along with gentle care, using the right hair tonic and supplements can make a big difference for postpartum hair loss.

Look for tonics made with natural ingredients like ginseng, biotin, or rosemary oil. These help:

• Stimulate the scalp

• Improve blood circulation

• Strengthen hair roots

• Reduce further shedding

5. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Postpartum hair loss is a natural phase, but what you eat can play a powerful role in how quickly your hair regains its strength and shine. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet helps fuel your recovery and supports healthy hair regrowth and reduce postpartum hair loss—because your body is still doing so much, even after birth.

Key nutrients to focus on:

• Protein – builds strong hair (eggs, chicken, beans, tofu)

• Iron – helps carry oxygen to hair follicles (spinach, red meat, lentils)

• Zinc – supports scalp health (nuts, seeds, whole grains)

• Biotin – essential for hair growth (eggs, sweet potatoes, salmon)

• Vitamin D & C – boost immunity and absorption (sunlight, citrus, berries)

Don’t forget water—hydration keeps your scalp healthy too.

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important not to ignore them. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for professional advice — they can guide you on managing symptoms, hormone therapy options, and lifestyle changes to help you feel your best during this transition.

Need assistance? Consult with our pharmacist in Mama & Babies Telegram

or

Check over 200+ Health Lane Family Pharmacy stores HERE as we’re delivering wholesome HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS for you & your family’s health needs.

The post 5 Tips to Manage Postpartum Hair Loss appeared first on Health Lane Family Pharmacy.

Haze Is Back – What Do You Need to Know

As of July 19, 2025, several areas in Peninsular Malaysia are experiencing worrying haze levels. Air quality in some regions is “unhealthy” for individuals sensitive to pollutants. In addition to dry weather, this matter requires close attention and adherence to safety rules to safeguard public health.

Haze is back – What do you need to know:

1. Haze Is Back – Symptoms caused by Haze:

• Difficulty breathing and chest tightness – A result of particles irritating the lungs, especially in individuals with asthma or chronic respiratory issues.

• Flu-like symptoms – Including sneezing, runny nose, and general malaise, often mistaken for a common cold.

• Increased risk of respiratory infections – Haze weakens the body’s natural respiratory defenses, making it easier for viruses and bacteria to take hold.

• Sore throat and Sore Eyes – Caused by inflammation of the airways and throat lining. Can irritate the eyes, causing redness and discomfort.

• Asthma attacks – Haze is a well-known trigger for asthma, leading to more frequent and severe episodes.

2. Haze Is back – Protect Yourself and Your Loved One

• Mask up when outdoors – A well-fitted surgical or N95 mask can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful particles in the air.

• Use an air purifier indoors – Keeping indoor air clean is just as important as avoiding outdoor exposure. HEPA filters are particularly effective.

• Drink plenty of water – Staying hydrated helps your body flush out toxins and keeps your throat and airways moist.

• Wash your hands and face frequently – After being outdoors, clean your skin to remove any particles that may have settled. This reduces irritation and potential infections.

3. Haze is Back – Get Ready

• HLP Oracare Spray – A soothing oral spray that helps relieve throat irritation caused by dry, polluted air.

• HLP Lifesenze Respigard – A herbal supplement designed to strengthen your respiratory system and improve lung health.

• Retane Eye Drops – Perfect for relieving dry, itchy, or irritated eyes caused by fine dust particles.

• Corlive Tygerberry – A natural remedy known for its antioxidant properties to boost your immune response.

• Medison 4-Ply Surgical Mask – Offers a higher level of filtration to protect you from harmful particles in the air.

• KURIN V5 PRO Air Purifier – A high-efficiency air purifier with advanced filtration to ensure your indoor air stays clean and safe.

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important not to ignore them. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for professional advice — they can guide you on managing symptoms, hormone therapy options, and lifestyle changes to help you feel your best during this transition.

Check over 200+ Health Lane Family Pharmacy stores HERE as we’re delivering wholesome HAZE GO AWAY ESSENTIALS for you & your family’s health needs.

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7 Top Baby Oral Hygiene Tips That You Can’t Be Missed

Here are seven top baby oral hygiene tips that help you care for your little one’s precious smile from the very beginning. Keeping your baby’s oral hygiene is just as important as feeding them healthy food.

Good baby oral hygiene habits should start early to prevent cavities and ensure strong, healthy teeth as they grow.

1. Start Early To Practice Baby Oral Hygiene

   Babies typically get their first tooth around 6 months old. From that moment, their teeth are vulnerable to decay, so it’s important to start oral care right away to build healthy habits and protect those tiny teeth.

   

2. Brush the Moment You See a Tooth

   As soon as a tooth appears, begin brushing with a soft-bristled infant toothbrush or a silicone finger brush. At this stage, use only water—no toothpaste is needed just yet.

3. Pick the Right Toothpaste

   For children under 2, use fluoride toothpaste with no more than 1000 ppm to help prevent cavities. It’s best to consult your dentist to determine whether your baby needs fluoride toothpaste.

4. Use the Right Amount

   Only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste is needed to clean effectively. Using a fun, child-friendly flavour can encourage your baby to enjoy brushing time.

5. Choose a Baby-Friendly Toothbrush

   Select a toothbrush designed for babies—these have smaller heads, extra-soft bristles, and safe rounded edges. A non-slip handle also helps parents maintain a firm, gentle grip while brushing.

6. Make It a Routine

   Brush your baby’s teeth twice a day: once in the morning and once before bed. Making brushing part of their daily routine helps them learn the importance of baby oral hygiene from a young age.

7. Visit the Dentist Regularly

   Schedule your baby’s first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. Regular dental check-ups help spot any early signs of decay and ensure proper development.

   

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important not to ignore them. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for professional advice — they can guide you on managing symptoms, hormone therapy options, and lifestyle changes to help you feel your best during this transition.

Need assistance? Consult with our pharmacist in Mama & Babies Telegram

or

Check over 200+ Health Lane Family Pharmacy stores HERE as we’re delivering wholesome HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS for you & your family’s health needs.

The post 7 Top Baby Oral Hygiene Tips That You Can’t Be Missed appeared first on Health Lane Family Pharmacy.

Understanding Menopause Symptoms: What Happens to Your Body?

Menopause symptoms may happen in women who are in the stage of menopause. Did you know that the average age for menopause typically falls between 45 to 55 years old? This natural transition in a woman’s life is caused by a decline in ovarian function and a drop in estrogen levels in the bloodstream.

But what are the common signs you might experience before or during menopause? Let’s explore four of the most common menopause symptoms you should be aware of.

 1. Irregular Menstrual Cycle

One of the first signs of menopause is a change in your menstrual cycle. You may notice that:

-The time between periods becomes longer or shorter

-Your cycle becomes unpredictable — either shortened or prolonged

These irregularities are due to hormonal changes and are a normal part of the menopausal transition, also known as perimenopause.

2. Hot Flushes

Hot flushes are one of the most commonly reported symptoms of menopause. They may include:

-Sudden feelings of warmth, usually in the upper body

-Excessive sweating

-Fatigue, dizziness, or even heart palpitations

Some women experience hot flashes multiple times a day, often accompanied by night sweats that disrupt sleep.

3. Mental Health Changes

Hormonal shifts can have a significant impact on your mood and mental well-being. Women going through menopause may face:

-Anxiety or irritability

-Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)

-Mood swings or feelings of depression

-Increased levels of stress

Don’t ignore these symptoms — mental health support and lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference.

4. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)

GSM refers to a group of symptoms affecting the urinary and vaginal health of women after menopause. You may notice:

-Increased urgency and frequency of urination

-Vaginal dryness, irritation, itching, or burning sensations

-A higher risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs)

These symptoms can affect quality of life and intimacy but are treatable with proper care and consultation.

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important not to ignore them. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist for professional advice — they can guide you on managing symptoms, hormone therapy options, and lifestyle changes to help you feel your best during this transition.

Need assistance? Consult with our pharmacist in Mama & Babies Telegram

or

Check over 200+ Health Lane Family Pharmacy stores HERE as we’re delivering wholesome HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS for you & your family’s health needs.

The post Early Menopause Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore in Your 40s appeared first on Health Lane Family Pharmacy.

HFMD on the Rise in Malaysia: Top Prevention Tips to Keep Your Family Safe

Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) prevention tips are most effective when parents understand how the virus spreads and who it affects. HFMD is a common viral illness that mainly affects infants and children under the age of 10. Though it is usually mild, the disease is highly contagious and can spread quickly in places like childcare centers and schools.

HFMD cases raised in Malaysia

According to Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) on 12 May 2025, a total of 99,601 HFMD cases were reported compared to 27,236 cases for the same period last year, an increase of 266%. The five states that recorded the highest number of cases were Selangor with 27,118 cases (27.2%), followed by Johor with 9,864 cases (9.9%), Perak with 9,347 cases (9.4%), Kelantan with 7,147 (7.2%) and the Federal Territories of KL and Putrajaya with 6,850 cases (6.9%).

How HFMD Spreads

The virus responsible for HFMD can be transmitted in several ways. Infection occurs when someone comes into direct contact with body fluids of an infected individual, including:

• Nose and throat secretions (like saliva, mucus) 
• Fluid from blisters or rashes 
• Stool (poop) of an infected person 
• Touching contaminated surfaces or shared items 

Because children often play closely together and may not practice proper hygiene, HFMD spreads easily in group settings.

Common Signs and Symptoms of HFMD

Symptoms of HFMD usually develop 3–6 days after exposure. Early signs often include a mild fever and sore throat, followed by a rash and mouth sores. Here’s what to look for:

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Painful mouth sores
• Skin rash on palms, soles of the feet, or buttocks
• Loss of appetite
• General feeling of unwellness (malaise)

The mouth sores and rashes can be uncomfortable, which may cause children to eat less or become irritable.

How to Prevent HFMD in Children?

You can take several simple steps to reduce the risk of infection and protect your family:

1. Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after diaper changes, using the toilet, or returning from public places like school.

2. Disinfect commonly touched surfaces and shared items, such as toys, doorknobs, and tables.

3. Avoid close contact with someone who is infected—no hugging, kissing, or sharing utensils.

4. Teach proper cough and sneeze etiquette. Cover the mouth and nose, and wash hands immediately after.

5. Boost your child’s immunity through a balanced diet, enough sleep, and daily physical activity.

A Quick Tip Before You Go

If your child starts showing signs of HFMD, act early. Keep them hydrated, ensure they rest, and avoid sending them to school or daycare to prevent spreading the virus. And most importantly, maintain clean hands and surroundings—prevention always starts at home.

Need assistance? Consult with our pharmacist in Mama & Babies Telegram

or

Check over 200+ Health Lane Family Pharmacy stores HERE as we’re delivering wholesome HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS for you & your family’s health needs.

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