Beijing is currently experiencing a hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) outbreak with 1513 new cases reported within just one week, according to the Beijing Municipal Health Bureau. The latest reports indicate a 25.14% rise in cases over the previous week’s reporting and illness among children is increasing at a rate of 200 new cases per day. The Beijing Municipal Center for Disease Control has estimated that the disease will continue its high infection rate for the next three months, and the likelihood of causing death is not being ruled out.

HFMD is a viral illness that usually infects infants under the age of five. However, it is possible to adults to contract it too. Common symptoms include fever, mouth sores, and a skin rash. Ways to avoid contracting the illness includes:

• Washing your hands often with soap and water
• Disinfecting dirty surfaces and soiled items
• Avoiding close contact such as kissing, hugging, or sharing eating utensils or   cups with infected persons

See also: Finding the Right Medical Care in Beijing: Chinese and Foreign Hospitals

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Keywords: foot and mouth disease Beijing hand