Singapore: There is a high incidence of HFMD in Asia. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recorded approximately 2.5 million cases in China, Japan, Singapore, Vietnam and Hong Kong in 2015, with 2 million cases registered in China alone.

The research, announced at CIP 2016 held in Xi'an, China demonstrates that BETADINE products are more effective than the commercially available hand washes and disinfectants in killing the EV71 and CA16 viruses, the leading strains of HFMD, where prophylaxis and effective disinfection and can help protect healthcare professionals, families and patients during HFMD outbreaks.

In particular, BETADINE Sore Throat Spray, Skin Cleanser, Gargle and Mouthwash demonstrate virucidal efficacy against the EV 71 and CA 16 viruses, of which the EV 71 causes the most complications. Specifically 10 percent antiseptic solution, 7.5 percent surgical scrub, 7.5 percent skin cleanser, 1 percent gargle, 7.5 percent gargle and 0.45 percent throat spray were effective against both CA16 and EV71.

HFMD is caused by a group of enteroviruses and coxsackie viruses which spreads from person-to-person through direct contact with nose and throat discharge, saliva, fluid from blisters or the stool of infected persons. While adults can be affected, children under five years of age are particularly susceptible and hence even the act of putting foreign objects like toys in the mouth at school and at home can lead to transmission from one child to the other. Infected persons are most contagious during the first week of their illness, with the period of communicability lasting for several weeks.

Although the risk of transmission of HFMD viruses such as enteroviruses and coxsackievirus are higher in crowded areas, the risk of infection can be lowered by good hygiene practices and prompt medical attention. It is also encouraged to avoid close contact such as kissing, hugging and sharing utensils.

The proven efficacy of BETADINE can strengthen the implementation of the World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines for hygiene measures to limit the spread of viruses causing HFMD. BETADINE Sore Throat Spray, Skin Cleanser, Gargle and Mouthwash can form a perfect fit for hand, oral and throat protective hygiene by eliminating the viruses causing HFMD.

Patients with HFMD can also experience fever, poor appetite and malaise within the first 2 days of the appearance of HFMD symptoms. Apart from BETADINE® Mouthwash and Gargle and Throat Spray's germicidal protective hygiene role, they are also very effective in the treatment of sore throats, which is a common occurrence in HFMD sufferers.