This year, several health departments, particularly on the East Coast, have confirmed higher rates of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD), a viral infection that spreads easily from person to person, compared to previous years.

For example, in 2025, the Virginia Department of Health saw significant increases in emergency department and urgent care visits for HFMD, as well as a notable increase in reported HFMD outbreaks, when compared to previous years. K-12 schools and childcare centers have reported the most outbreaks. The Washington, D.C. health department alone reported 197 emergency department visits in September related to HFMD, primarily among children under five years. The West Virginia health department also has identified a significant increase in reported outbreaks of HFMD statewide. In 2025, a total of 38 HFMD outbreaks have been reported, including 17 outbreaks since Sept. 1. In Maryland, three counties—Montgomery, Prince George’s, and St. Mary’s—reported an increase in HFMD, including an announcement last week  from Prince George’s County Public Schools that over 40 schools in the district have reported cases of HFMD as of Oct. 30.

Across the country, the New Mexico Department of Health has reported a high number of calls to the department in 2025, suggesting a higher rate of the virus this year compared to the past two years. In August, the Illinois Department of Public Health said HFMD was currently surging in Illinois and nationally, however, no increased illness severity had been observed.  

To prevent and control HFMD, health departments recommend:

• Frequent handwashing, especially after diapering and bathroom use and before food handling.
• Respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette.
• Regular cleaning and disinfecting of frequently touched surfaces and toys.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also offers steps on how to clean and disinfect child care and education settings. 

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the global developer of the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards, opened certification to the LEED v5 rating system and released new tools and resources for users.

LEED users can now certify projects under the new rating system. Scorecards focused on LEED v5’s core impact areas—decarbonization, quality of life, and ecological conservation and restoration—are available to help guide project teams in planning goals and intent. A wide range of tools, including calculators, a scorecard builder, recertification guidance, and a decarbonization workbook, support the success of project teams in achieving certification.

Additionally, USGBC has released updated LEED v5 crosswalks to help streamline the process for projects pursuing multiple certifications. These include the LEED v5 and WELL crosswalk developed in collaboration with the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), and the LEED v5 and SITES crosswalk.

“Since releasing the rating system and launching LEED v5 registration earlier this year, we have seen interest in using the new rating system spread across the industry,” said Peter Templeton, USGBC president and CEO. “Recognizing that LEED v5 is a significant step forward, we are committed to helping our community understand and apply the new elements by providing USGBC members and LEED users with detailed resources and enhanced support.”

LEED v5 offers clear steps for buildings to achieve near-zero carbon status while prioritizing physical resilience and the health and well-being of people and communities.

Additionally, a Cushman and Wakefield report found projects that invest in LEED certification see a return on investment through higher asset values, increased occupancy rates, and higher rents.