Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is a common viral infection that primarily affects young children, although it can occur in older children and adults. The illness is typically mild but spreads easily through close personal contact, coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces.

Symptoms

Symptoms usually begin with a fever, sore throat, and reduced appetite, followed by small painful ulcers in the mouth and a rash or blisters on the hands, feet, or buttocks. Other signs may include tiredness and irritability.

Parents are advised to keep children who are showing any of these symptoms home from school and public gatherings, including Halloween trick-or-treat activities, until the fever has resolved and any blisters have dried.

Prevention and Care

There are no vaccines or pharmacological interventions available to prevent or treat HFMD. Over-the-counter medications can help relieve fever and pain, but aspirin should not be given unless directed by a healthcare provider.

To help prevent HFMD:

• Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the toilet or changing diapers.

• Disinfect commonly touched surfaces such as doorknobs, toys, and electronic devices.

• Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms.

Most children recover within 7 to 10 days. Children with confirmed HFMD may return to school once they are fever-free, no longer drooling from mouth sores, have no open blisters, and feel well enough to participate in daily activities.

Public Health Reminder

“We want families to enjoy Halloween safely while helping to prevent illness,” said Dr. Samuel Williams-Rodriguez, Medical Officer of Health. “Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is generally mild, but because it spreads so easily in schools and community settings, it’s important that parents keep unwell children at home and follow good hygiene practices.”

The Public Health Department continues to monitor the situation closely and is working with the Department of Education and school administrators to provide guidance and support where needed.

For more information, please contact the Public Health Department at 244-2621 or 244-2648.