Hand, Foot and Mouth disease rock eThekwini region schools

DURBAN - The KWAZULU-Natal Department of Health is concerned and calling for calm, following  recent confirmed cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) at several primary schools and daycare centres in the north of Durban. 

The first six cases were reported between the 6th and 10th of February. Since then, the number of confirmed cases has risen to 36. The affected learning facilities are in Phoenix, Greenwood Park, and Umhlanga.

An outreach team from the Department visited the nine affected schools to investigate the outbreak.

In all instances, the learners were found to be suffering from flu-like symptoms, as well as blisters, and swollen hands. The children’s parents were called by the school principal to come and pick them up.

The Department would like to emphasise the importance of maintaining good health and cleanliness, which includes frequent hand washing, no sharing of utensils (such as cutlery, cups, and toothbrushes), and opening windows to allow for air to circulate," said KZN Health MEC

In the meantime, the Department urges all parents and caregivers to regularly clean surfaces and avoid the sharing of items such as toys and stationery.

Spokesman for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health Mr Ntokozo Maphisa said: “We are concerned about these growing numbers, but in the same breath we would like to appeal for calm. It is important for people to understand HFMD, including what it is, how it can be prevented, its symptoms and how is transmitted.

“We urge parents to ensure that children have no direct contact with persons who are ill. Those who are affected by HFMD, with severe disease or complications, are urged to visit the nearest healthcare facility. Learners who are symptomatic of HFMD should be kept at home until they feel better.”

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE ILLNESS

· HFMD can be found anywhere in South Africa, but most outbreaks occur in institutions like crèches or day care centres.

· HFMD is spread from person to person by direct contact or by droplets from the mouth or nose of an infected person. 

· HFMD may also be spread through contaminated objects, such as toys, stationery, and faeces. Common signs and symptoms of HFMD include fever, sore throat, tiredness, loss of appetite and small blisters on the inside of the mouth, sides of the tongue, palms of the hands and soles of the feet.

· The symptoms of HFMD usually start 3 to 7 days after being infected, and last between 7 to 10 days. 

· Those with severe HFMD or complications must go to the nearest healthcare facility.