Parents warned of hand, foot, mouth disease outbreak in the province
HFMD can be controlled simply by adhering to basic principles of hygiene, the KZN Health Department said.+
Several Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases have been reported in the Umzinyathi district, with National & Provincial Health reporting over 330 cases in KZN.
Most of the outbreaks have been centred around day-care centres and crèches.
The disease primarily affects infants and young children, though adults can occasionally contract it.
Unfortunately, no specific medical treatments or vaccinations for HFMD make prevention crucial.
To reduce the spread of the disease, the health departments recommend the following measures:
* Avoid contact with infected individuals.
* Practice good hygiene by keeping your hands clean and ensuring that children wash their hands frequently.
* Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
* Do not share household items such as towels or eating utensils.
* Clean and disinfect touched surfaces and objects frequently.
* Keep children home from school or day-care if they show symptoms.
A local clinic sister said that the symptoms of HFMD are similar to chickenpox, including sores on the hands, feet and mouth, and may also include fever, sore throat and rash.
If you or your child show signs of HFMD, it’s important to consult a medical professional or visit your nearest clinic for guidance.
Stay vigilant and help to protect your community by following the above preventative measures.
“There is no need for the public to panic because the outbreak remains under control at the current moment.
No serious public health threat has been detected.”
However, parents and caregivers are urged to be vigilant in case their children display common symptoms such as 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 infection is usually self-limiting and clears without medication after seven to 10 days.
“This means that one can recover without treatment or medication.”
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