Core Insights - The Philippines reported a significant increase in hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) cases, with a total of 37,368 cases from January 1 to August 9 this year, representing a sevenfold increase compared to the same period last year [1] Summary by Categories Disease Overview - HFMD is caused by enteroviruses and primarily affects infants and young children, leading to rashes on the hands, feet, and mouth [1] - Approximately 50% of the reported cases are among children aged 1 to 3 years [1] Public Health Advisory - The Department of Health emphasizes the rapid transmission of HFMD, urging the public to maintain good personal hygiene [1] - Although HFMD typically does not result in fatalities and is often self-limiting, there is a risk of complications such as meningitis and myocarditis in some patients [1] Prevention Measures - There is currently no specific medication for HFMD, and vaccination is highlighted as the best way to protect susceptible populations [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increase in patients presenting with "small blisters" on hands and feet during the summer, primarily caused by various skin conditions, with a focus on sweat eczema as the most common cause [1][2]. Group 1: Common Conditions - The most common condition leading to "small blisters" is sweat eczema, characterized by small blisters on the palms and soles, often accompanied by severe itching [2][3]. - Other potential causes include athlete's foot, hand-foot eczema, contact dermatitis, and hand-foot-mouth disease, each with distinct characteristics and treatment approaches [3][4]. Group 2: Symptoms and Diagnosis - Patients typically experience blisters on the sides of fingers, palms, and soles, with symptoms worsening at night or with heat, leading to potential secondary infections if scratched [2][3]. - Sweat eczema is noted for its self-limiting nature, often exacerbating in summer and improving in fall and winter, with recurrent episodes leading to skin thickening and cracking [2][3]. Group 3: Treatment Approaches - Treatment for sweat eczema focuses on symptomatic relief, with options like calamine lotion for itching and topical corticosteroids for severe cases [6]. - Athlete's foot requires maintaining dry skin and may involve antifungal medications, with an emphasis on completing the full treatment course to prevent recurrence [6]. - Hand-foot eczema treatment involves avoiding irritants and may include wet dressings during acute phases, transitioning to topical corticosteroids as the condition stabilizes [6]. - Contact dermatitis treatment emphasizes identifying and removing the irritant, followed by appropriate topical or oral medications as needed [6][7].