Top Healthcare News in Asia: Insights and Updates on Medical Industry, Medical Technology, Healthcare Business, R&D, and Events in the Region

Hong Kong on alert as Hand,Foot and Mouth Disease cases Rise Among Children

Hong Kong,November 28,2025 – Hong Kong’s Center for Health Protection (CHP) is urging parents and schools to remain vigilant as hand,foot and mouth disease (HFMD) activity continues to climb among children. The CHP has emphasized the importance of immediate outbreak reporting from schools and institutions.

Recent surveillance data reveals a consistent increase in HFMD clusters over the past month.Outbreaks reported rose from 17 cases affecting 50 individuals between october 26 and November 1, to 20 outbreaks (53 people) and subsequently 25 outbreaks (61 people) in the following two weeks. The period between November 16 and 20 saw another 16 outbreaks impacting 40 people. A significant 82% of the 78 outbreaks logged from October 26 to November 20 occurred within childcare centers, kindergartens, and primary schools.

Consultation rates for HFMD at childcare centers, kindergartens, private clinics, and public hospital emergency departments have remained elevated since late october, signaling sustained transmission.

Understanding HFMD Symptoms

HFMD typically presents wiht fever, loss of appetite, fatigue, and a sore throat, followed by the development of mouth sores that can progress into ulcers. Most patients experience a full recovery within seven to ten days.

[Image of a child with HFMD symptoms]

Seasonal Trends and Potential Severity

CHP Controller Dr. Edwin Tsui explained that HFMD is commonly caused by enteroviruses, including Coxsackie virus and EV71, with peak seasons in Hong Kong occurring from May to July and again from October to December. He stressed the need for close monitoring of children given the current elevated activity levels.

While the majority of cases are mild, three severe pediatric enterovirus infections requiring hospitalization have been recorded this year, though all patients have since recovered. The close proximity of young children in school and institutional settings contributes to a higher risk of outbreaks.

Preventative Measures and Guidelines

Dr. Tsui reminded schools and institutions to adhere to the CHP’s Guidelines on Prevention of Communicable Diseases and to promptly report any outbreaks. Operators of venues with play facilities are also advised to follow the CHP’s infection-control recommendations for activities involving children under six.

Crucially, the CHP has cautioned that alcohol is not a reliable disinfectant against certain viruses causing HFMD, including EV71. Alcohol-based handrubs should not replace thorough handwashing with liquid soap and water.

Key preventative measures include:

* Maintaining good air circulation.
* Practicing frequent and proper handwashing – before meals,after using the toilet,after contact with respiratory secretions,and after handling diapers or stool-soiled materials.
* Covering the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and disposing of nasal/oral discharges responsibly.
* Regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces (furniture, toys, shared items) with a 1:99 diluted household bleach solution (one part bleach to 99 parts water), allowing it to sit for 15-30 minutes before rinsing and drying.
* For visible contamination (respiratory secretions, vomit, excreta), wipe with disposable towels and disinfect with a 1:49 diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to 49 parts water).

the CHP continues to monitor the situation closely and urges the public to prioritize preventative measures to protect children from HFMD.

What are the primary drivers behind the rapid growth of telemedicine in Southeast Asia?

The Rise of Telemedicine in Southeast Asia

Telemedicine is experiencing explosive growth across Southeast Asia, driven by increasing smartphone penetration, government initiatives, and a need to address healthcare access disparities. Countries like Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam are seeing significant investment in telehealth platforms.

* Indonesia: The Ministry of Health is actively promoting telemedicine to reach remote islands and underserved populations. Several startups are focusing on providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services.

* Thailand: BDMS Wellness Clinic, a leading private hospital group, has expanded it’s telemedicine offerings, focusing on chronic disease management and preventative care.

* Vietnam: Vinmec, a large private hospital chain, is leveraging telemedicine to offer specialist consultations to patients across the country.

This expansion is fueled by venture capital investment in digital health, with a focus on AI-powered diagnostics and remote patient monitoring. Key players include Halodoc (Indonesia), Doctor Anywhere (Singapore), and mClinica (Philippines). The digital health market in asia is projected to reach $300 billion by 2028.

Medical Technology Innovations: Japan and South Korea Lead the Way

Japan and South Korea continue to be at the forefront of medical technology innovation in Asia. Both countries are heavily investing in robotics, AI, and advanced imaging technologies.

Robotics in Surgery and Rehabilitation

* japan: companies like Asahi Kasei are developing robotic surgical systems designed to enhance precision and minimize invasiveness. Focus is also on rehabilitation robots to address the aging population and increasing demand for post-stroke care.

* South Korea: Hankook Mirae Technology is a key player in the advancement of exoskeletons for rehabilitation and industrial applications. Korean hospitals are increasingly adopting robotic surgery systems from both domestic and international manufacturers.

AI-Powered Diagnostics and Drug Discovery

* South Korea: AI is being used to analyze medical images (radiology, pathology) to improve diagnostic accuracy and speed. Several companies are utilizing machine learning algorithms for early cancer detection.

* Japan: Pharmaceutical companies are employing AI to accelerate drug discovery and development, reducing the time and cost associated with bringing new therapies to market. Precision medicine is a key focus.

Healthcare Business & Investment trends

The healthcare industry in Asia is attracting significant foreign investment. Private equity firms and venture capitalists are actively seeking opportunities in areas such as:

1. Hospital Groups: Expansion of existing hospital chains and the development of new facilities, notably in emerging markets like India and the Philippines.
2. pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology: Investment in local pharmaceutical companies and biotechnology startups focused on developing innovative therapies.
3. medical Devices: Funding for companies developing and manufacturing medical devices, including diagnostics, surgical instruments, and monitoring equipment.
4. Digital Health: Continued investment in telehealth platforms, mobile health apps, and AI-powered healthcare solutions.

Recent Deals: In October 2024, Temasek Holdings invested $200 million in Indian healthcare provider Manipal Hospitals, signaling continued confidence in the Indian healthcare market.

R&D Focus: Combating emerging Infectious Diseases

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of robust research and development capabilities in Asia. Several countries are now prioritizing R&D efforts to combat emerging infectious diseases and strengthen pandemic preparedness.

* Singapore: The National University of Singapore (NUS) and Duke-NUS Medical School are leading research efforts in vaccine development and antiviral therapies.

* china: Sinovac and Sinopharm are actively developing and testing vaccines for a range of infectious diseases, including influenza and dengue fever.

* Thailand: The Mahidol University is conducting research on vector-borne diseases, such as dengue and malaria, which are prevalent in Southeast Asia.

The focus is shifting towards mRNA vaccine technology and the development of rapid diagnostic tests. Public health infrastructure improvements are also a key priority.

Key Healthcare Events in Asia (Late 2024 – Early 2025)

* Medical Fair Asia (Singapore,November 2024): A leading trade fair showcasing the latest medical technology and equipment.

* Japan Medical Technology Conference (Tokyo,December 2024): Focuses on cutting-edge medical innovations and industry trends.

* India pharma & Healthcare expo (Mumbai, January 2025): Highlights the growth of the Indian pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.

* china International Medical Equipment Fair (Shanghai, March 2025): A major event for medical equipment manufacturers and distributors