A pediatrician from the state-run Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) has warned of a rise in the number of patients with hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD).

Senior pediatrician Dr. Ahmed Faisal said that that the number of patients with HFMD has been increasing and advised to take steps in order to slow its spread.

Dr. Faisal advised parents to not send their children to school if they have been diagnosed with HFMD and to ensure that their toys and other belongings are thoroughly cleaned.

HFMD is caused by a virus and symptoms of the disease include ulcers, blisters, and rashes. While it can spread to people of all ages, children under 10 years of age are most vulnerable to contracting the disease.