Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Cases Rise in Boyacá, Colombia: Health Officials Issue Guidance
Tunja, Colombia – Health authorities in the Boyacá department of Colombia are reporting an increase in cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) among children, prompting a renewed public health campaign focused on preventative measures. The Secretaría de Salud de Boyacá has confirmed two outbreaks in 2026, in the municipalities of Tunja and Paz de Río, following 16 outbreaks recorded throughout 2025 in areas including Duitama, Sogamoso, Paipa, Villa de Leyva, and Samacá. While officials state that previous outbreaks were effectively contained, the recent uptick is raising concerns and emphasizing the importance of hygiene practices.
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral infection that primarily affects infants and children under five years old. The illness is typically not severe, but it is highly contagious. Symptoms generally begin with fever, sore throat, and a runny nose, followed by the development of blisters or a rash on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth. These blisters can make eating and drinking uncomfortable, and in rare cases, dehydration can become a concern. The disease is typically spread through close personal contact, respiratory droplets, or contact with contaminated surfaces.
Recent Outbreaks and Containment Efforts
According to the Secretaría de Salud de Boyacá, the outbreaks in 2025 prompted swift action from local health authorities. “…todos los eventos fueron intervenidos oportunamente mediante acciones de control y seguimiento epidemiológico, lo que permitió contener la transmisión sin que se presentaran complicaciones ni casos graves…” reported Candy Samanta Rodríguez Castillo, Director of Promotion and Prevention, in a statement. Caracol Radio reports that these interventions included epidemiological surveillance to monitor the spread of the virus.
The two new cases identified in 2026, in Tunja and Paz de Río, are currently under close observation by health officials. The Secretaría de Salud is actively monitoring the situation to prevent further spread and to ensure a rapid response should additional cases emerge. The department is working to identify the specific strains of the virus circulating in the affected areas, which can help inform public health strategies.
Preventative Measures Recommended by Health Officials
The Secretaría de Salud de Boyacá is urging parents, caregivers, and educators to reinforce preventative measures to limit the spread of HFMD. The cornerstone of prevention is frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water, particularly after changing diapers, using the toilet, and before preparing or consuming food. The Gobernación de Boyacá emphasizes this as a critical step in reducing transmission.
In addition to handwashing, health officials recommend the following:
- Disinfection of Surfaces: Regularly disinfect surfaces and toys, especially those frequently touched by children.
- Avoid Sharing Utensils: Do not allow children to share eating utensils, drinking glasses, or other personal items.
- Keep Sick Children Home: Children exhibiting symptoms of HFMD – fever or skin lesions – should be kept home from daycare or school to prevent further spread.
Understanding the Disease and its Impact
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by viruses belonging to the Enterovirus genus, most commonly Coxsackievirus A16 and Enterovirus 71. While generally mild, the illness can cause discomfort and disruption to daily life for affected children and their families. The rash and sores can be painful, making it difficult for children to eat, drink, and sleep. Although rare, complications such as viral meningitis or encephalitis can occur, particularly with Enterovirus 71.
The disease is most prevalent during the spring and fall months, but outbreaks can occur year-round. There is no specific treatment for HFMD; care is focused on relieving symptoms, such as fever and pain, and preventing dehydration. Most children recover fully within 7-10 days.
Public Health Response and Ongoing Monitoring
The Dirección de Promoción y Prevención en Salud within the Gobernación de Boyacá is playing a central role in coordinating the public health response. The department is responsible for surveillance, outbreak investigation, and the dissemination of health information to the public. They are also working with local healthcare providers to ensure they are equipped to diagnose and manage cases of HFMD.
Health officials are continuing to monitor the situation closely and are prepared to implement additional measures if necessary. This may include targeted vaccination campaigns, if a vaccine becomes available, and increased public awareness efforts. The Secretaría de Salud urges anyone experiencing symptoms of HFMD to seek medical attention promptly.
The ongoing surveillance and preventative measures are crucial to minimizing the impact of this contagious illness on the children of Boyacá. By adhering to recommended hygiene practices and promptly seeking medical care when needed, families and communities can work together to protect themselves and prevent the spread of hand, foot, and mouth disease.
The Secretaría de Salud de Boyacá will provide updated information on the situation as it evolves. The next official update is scheduled for April 12, 2026, when the department will release a report on the effectiveness of the current preventative measures. Readers are encouraged to share this information with their communities and to report any suspected cases of HFMD to their local health authorities.