Manila, Sept. 18 -- The Department of Health (DOH) 10 (Northern Mindanao) has increased its monitoring of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) cases in the region.

In a "Konsultayo" briefing, Dr. Maryanne Sharlene Isidro, DOH-10 head of communications and health education promotions, said they have observed an upward trend in HFMD cases, particularly in June, July, and August.

"It is possible that when children returned from their summer vacation, they were exposed to the virus (that causes HFMD)," she said.

Isidro noted that while children below five years old are the most affected, older children and adults can still be infected.

This was also raised by the city's 2nd District Councilor, medical doctor Paolo Nicolo Gaane, who said h...