# Pune sees surge in hand-foot-mouth disease among children 2026-09-17T21:52:16+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet Pune is reporting a sharp rise in Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease (HFMD) among children aged two to seven years, with some children experiencing repeated infections for the first time. Senior paediatrician Dr Jayant Navrange said cases have increased over the past five weeks, with some children suffering two to three episodes of the infection. Doctors attribute the spread to seasonal weather changes and close-contact settings in schools and day care centres. Common symptoms include fever, mouth sores, fatigue, and blisters on the hands, feet, tongue, and inner cheeks. While most children recover with symptomatic treatment within 7 to 10 days, severe cases may require hospitalisation. Dr Bhagwan Pawar, deputy director of health services, Pune region, said children aged three to seven are particularly vulnerable and urged schools to isolate symptomatic children immediately. HFMD spreads through contact with infected surfaces, toys, or direct person-to-person contact, and there is no specific drug treatment available. ## Indian Opinion Analysis HFMD is a common viral infection that typically peaks in Pune from June to October and December to January, but the current surge is notable for the number of repeat infections. Children under five are most susceptible because their immune systems are still developing. Under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme, state health departments are required to report outbreaks of HFMD, though individual cases are not notifiable. Schools and parents should watch for clusters of fever and rash, which signal active transmission. The key number to track is whether hospitalisation rates rise, as severe cases, though rare, can lead to dehydration or neurological complications. ## Coverage - hindustantimes.com Tags: Dr Jayant Navrange, Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease, Pune Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/pune-sees-surge-in-hand-foot-mouth-disease-among-children/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/pune-sees-surge-in-hand-foot-mouth-disease-among-children/#story-in-brief