The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health has confirmed 168 cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) across the province, with most infections occurring in primary schools and daycare centres.
According to the department, the eThekwini District has reported the highest number of cases, with 120 confirmed infections. The King Cetshwayo District follows with 25 cases, while uGu District has 20. The uMkhanyakude District has recorded three cases.
The outbreak, which began between February 6 and 10, has prompted provincial health officials to send outbreak response teams to the affected schools. These teams are working to monitor the situation and manage the spread of the virus.
Symptoms and Transmission
Ntokozo Maphisa, spokesperson for the health department, explained that symptoms of HFMD typically appear three to seven days after exposure to the virus and can last between seven to 10 days. Common symptoms include fever, sore throat, fatigue, loss of appetite, and small blisters on the inside of the mouth, sides of the tongue, palms, and soles of the feet.
Maphisa highlighted that many children have presented with flu-like symptoms, as well as swollen hands and blisters. He also noted that HFMD is particularly common in infants and young children and is caused by enteroviruses. The disease is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact or respiratory droplets from an infected person. It can also be transmitted through contaminated objects, such as toys and stationery.
Prevention and Management
There is no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment for HFMD. The infection is typically self-limiting and resolves on its own within a week to 10 days. Maphisa reassured the public, urging calm while encouraging awareness about the disease’s prevention and transmission.
Health officials are advising those affected to stay hydrated and rest. However, individuals with severe symptoms should seek medical attention at healthcare facilities.
The department also emphasized the importance of hygiene in controlling the spread of HFMD. Regular hand washing, avoiding the sharing of utensils or personal items, and ventilating rooms by opening windows are key preventive measures. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to clean frequently touched surfaces and to prevent children from sharing toys or stationery.
Maphisa also urged parents to keep symptomatic children at home until they have recovered and to avoid contact with individuals who are ill.
“We are concerned about the rising number of cases, but we remain committed to managing the situation effectively. It is crucial for communities to understand the disease, its symptoms, and how it spreads,” Maphisa said.
For more information, residents are encouraged to contact local health facilities or consult the provincial health department’s guidelines on preventing HFMD.
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