Hand, Foot, And Mouth Disease Outbreak Hits KwaZulu-Natal, What Parents Need To Know

The current epidemic of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in KwaZulu-Natal has concerned both parents and health officials.

The Department of Health has advised calm as they continuously monitor the situation, stressing that, while the condition is contagious, it is under control and poses no severe public health risk at the moment.

Understanding Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

HFMD is a common viral illness that mostly affects children under the age of five but can also infect adults.

One of the parents, Neo Lemaoana, says she got worried when her four-year-old told her there were many children suffering from itching at her school.

“My daughter told me her friends were sick, and their parents fetched them from school. Then, being a nurse, I called the matron of the school to notify the department about the cases,” she says.

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Another parent, who asked not to be named to protect her child, says her five-year-old son’s face was turning red. “When I got a call that my child was sick, I left my work in a hurry. I found the department’s vehicle at the school, and I was praying that my child would recover from this sickness. I thought it was mpox,” she says.

Enteroviruses, including the coxsackievirus, cause the disease, and symptoms include fever, sore throat, painful mouth sores, and a rash on the hands and sometimes buttocks.

Most occurrences are minor and self-limiting, with symptoms usually disappearing within 7 to 10 days without medical intervention.

Parents should be paying attention to these common signs. If children display these symptoms, especially if they are unable to swallow fluids because of the pain from mouth sores, parents should seek medical attention.

Public Health Response

In reaction to the epidemic in KwaZulu-Natal, health officials are closely monitoring educational institutions where cases have been reported.

The Department of Health has created an epidemic response team to monitor and control the spread of HFMD. Parents are recommended to keep their children at home if they exhibit any signs of HFMD to prevent further transmission.

However, some argue that excessive caution can lead to unnecessary anxiety among families and disrupt children’s education and social development.

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Hygiene Practices for Prevention

Good hygiene is critical to preventing the spread of HFMD. The Department of Health advises. Washing your hands is recommended regularly, particularly after using the bathroom and before meals.

This simple yet effective practice notably reduces the risk of infection and helps maintain overall health in children or when changing nappies.

Surface disinfection involves periodically cleaning toys and commonly handled surfaces. Avoiding Close Contact. Keep infected people away from others until they recover. These measures are essential not only in schools but also at home to ensure a safe environment for all children.

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