KwaZulu-Natal health officials are working to identify patient zero amid the rapid spread of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in the province.
Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane-Mngadi says tracing the first infected individual could help track the outbreak’s origin and curb further transmission. However, efforts to do so have so far been unsuccessful.
Currently, 195 cases have been confirmed in KZN, with the eThekwini District being the hardest hit, reporting 147 infections. Other affected areas include King Cetshwayo (25 cases), Ugu (20), and uMkhanyakude (3).
Lenham Primary School in Phoenix, north of Durban, is the worst-affected school, recording 89 cases.
Authorities have ruled out a blanket approach to containment, as infections are occurring in clusters. "In eThekwini, for instance, affected schools are concentrated in one circuit. Other clusters are also emerging in rural schools," Simelane-Mngadi explained.
Meanwhile, the Department of Health has urged the public to remain calm as officials monitor the situation.
To address confusion surrounding the disease, Director for Communicable Diseases Babongile Mhlongo clarified that HFMD is not related to Foot and Mouth Disease, which affects hoofed animals.
“It cannot be transmitted between humans and animals. HFMD is a mild illness, but its blisters—found around the mouth, on the tongue, palms, and feet—can make it difficult for children to swallow, hold objects, or walk properly,” Mhlongo said.
Health authorities continue to emphasize the importance of hygiene in preventing further spread.