eThekwini records highest foot, mouth, hand disease infections
As of Monday, February 17, eThekwini has recorded increased numbers of HFMD infections, seeing a spike from last week's outbreak. The health department assures residents that the situation is "under control and there is no reason for panic".
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 Durban.
The latest recorded number of infections indicates that eThekwini tops all districts in the province with 120 cases, followed by King Cetshwayo District with 25 cases, uGu District at 20 and uMkhanyakude District with three confirmed cases.
“The City would like to reassure the public that the situation is under control and emphasises the importance of seeking medical attention when needed. HFMD is a common illness affecting infants and young children, often occurring in small outbreaks during summer and autumn. It should not be confused with Foot and Mouth Disease, which affects animals. HFMD is a highly contagious viral infection which spreads through contact with the mouth, nose, and eyes,” said Gugu Sisilana, eThekwini spokesperson.
Also read:Â All about Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease in kids
She added, “A virtual training session was held on February 14 with circuit managers and school principals, with another session planned next week for healthcare workers. The City’s Communicable Disease Team will also visit schools and communities to raise awareness and promote hygiene practices as part of strengthening response efforts.”
Spokesman for the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health, Ntokozo Maphisa, urged the public to remain calm. “We are concerned about these 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 it is transmitted.
“The first six cases were reported between February 6 and 10. Since then, the number of confirmed cases has risen. In all instances, the learners were found to be suffering from flu-like symptoms, as well as blisters, and swollen hands.”
Maphisa added, “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.”
Also read:Â How to prevent being infected by the contagious Mpox disease
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hand foot and mouth disease?
Hand foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a fairly common viral infection, which mainly affects infants and children. HFMD is caused by a group of viruses known as enteroviruses. It usually occurs in small outbreaks at crèches / day-care centres during the summer and autumn months.
Who can get hand foot and mouth disease?
Children under the age of 10 years are at greatest risk of infection. It is not common in adults, but people with weak immune systems may be prone to infection.
How is hand foot and mouth disease transmitted?
HFMD is spread from person to person by direct contact or by droplets from the mouth or nose of an infected person. The virus may also be spread through contaminated objects (e.g. toys, stationery) and faeces.
What are the signs and symptoms of hand foot and mouth disease?
Symptoms usually start three to seven days after infection and last between seven to 10 days. Common signs and symptoms 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.
How is hand foot and mouth disease treated?
There is no specific vaccine or treatment for HMFD. Individual symptoms such as fever and pain from sores can be treated with medication. Affected individuals are encouraged to rest and drink plenty of water. A small minority of individuals with HMFD may need to be admitted to the hospital for treatment of complications.
How is hand foot and mouth disease prevented?
Educators and parents should encourage good hygiene such as regular hand-washing and not sharing eating utensils (e.g. cutlery, cups, toothbrushes). Regularly clean surfaces and other shared items such as toys and stationery. Children should avoid direct contact with persons who are ill. HFMD can be found anywhere in South Africa, but most outbreaks occur in institutions like crèches or daycare centres.
For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook , X or  Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here
