The KwaZulu-Natal Health Department is urging residents to remain vigilant as cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) continue to be reported. The viral infection, which primarily affects infants and young children, can also impact adolescents and, in rare cases, adults.
What is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
HFMD is a contagious viral illness that causes blisters or sores in and around the mouth, as well as on the hands, feet, and other parts of the body. It is important to note that this disease is not related to the foot-and-mouth disease that affects animals.
How Does HFMD Spread?
The virus is highly transmissible and can spread through:
- Contact with fluid from blisters
- Coughs and sneezes from infected individuals
- Exposure to contaminated surfaces and objects
- Contact with an infected person's stool
Symptoms of HFMD
Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Painful blisters on the hands, feet, and mouth
Prevention Measures
To reduce the risk of infection, health authorities recommend the following precautions:
- Avoid close contact with infected individuals
- Wash hands frequently, especially after using the restroom and before eating
- Avoid touching the face (eyes, nose, and mouth)
- Refrain from sharing household items such as utensils and towels
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces
- Keep infected children at home from school or daycare until symptoms subside
Treatment and Recovery
There is no specific treatment for HFMD, but most individuals recover within 7 to 14 days. Supportive care includes:
- Over-the-counter remedies to ease sore throat and blisters
- Staying hydrated to prevent dehydration
- Avoiding antibiotics, as they are ineffective against viral infections
- Seeking medical attention if symptoms worsen or persist beyond 10 days
Health officials urge parents and caregivers to remain cautious and seek medical advice if symptoms develop.
