RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is reporting a sharp increase in Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases spreading through schools and daycares across Central Virginia.

Health officials say the average number of cases has roughly tripled so far this year.

“Just to give you some idea of the data, in past years, we may see between 45 to 60 outbreaks reported per year. This year, in 2025 since May, we’ve had over 165 outbreaks of disease reported,” said Dawn Saady, epidemiologist with the Virginia Department of Health.

Dr. Mark Flanzenbaum, founder and co-owner of KidMed Pediatric Urgent Care, said his staff has noticed a surge in cases across the group’s multiple locations .

“All of the staff here have noticed a significant increase. And around the co

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