Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease cases peported in Eastern Cape

At least 10 confirmed cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) have been reported in East London, Eastern Cape, raising concerns among parents and educators. The outbreak has primarily affected primary schools and daycare centres in the northern region of the Buffalo City Municipality.

Local health authorities have assured the public that the situation is under control and that measures are being implemented to prevent further spread of the infection.

Authorities Investigating the Outbreak

In response to the outbreak, Buffalo City District Health and Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) officials have launched an investigation into all reported cases. They are working closely with affected schools and daycare centres to monitor the situation and ensure that necessary health protocols are being followed.

“We are calling for calm, as the cases are still under control. School principals and daycare operators are encouraged to continue being vigilant,” said the BCM Municipality’s Health Services Department in an official statement.

Health officials have advised schools and daycare centres to maintain strict hygiene practices to prevent further infections. They have also urged parents to monitor their children for symptoms of HFMD and seek medical attention if necessary.

Health and Safety Inspections at Schools

To curb the spread of the disease, environmental health practitioners will conduct inspections at schools and daycare centres to assess their health and hygiene standards. Institutions that fail to meet the minimum health requirements could face temporary closure until they comply with hygiene regulations.

Authorities emphasize that proper sanitation, handwashing, and disinfecting shared surfaces are crucial in preventing the spread of HFMD. Schools and daycare facilities are being urged to implement stricter cleaning protocols and educate children on personal hygiene.

Rising Cases in KwaZulu-Natal

The outbreak in East London follows a more significant surge of HFMD cases in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). The KZN Department of Health has confirmed more than 300 cases in the province, with the majority originating from a primary school in Phoenix.

KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC, Nomagugu Simelane, addressed the situation, assuring the public that health authorities were actively working to contain the spread of the disease.

The spread of HFMD across multiple provinces highlights the need for nationwide awareness and preventative measures to control outbreaks in schools and daycare centres.

What is Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease?

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a viral infection that primarily affects young children. The disease is highly contagious and spreads through:

• Direct contact with infected individuals
• Touching contaminated surfaces
• Exposure to respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes
• Contact with fluid from blisters or infected stool

It is important to note that HFMD is not the same as Foot and Mouth Disease, which affects animals. HFMD only affects humans and is generally mild but can be uncomfortable and highly transmissible.

Symptoms of HFMD

The symptoms of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease typically appear three to seven days after infection. They include:

• Blisters or sores on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Fatigue and irritability
• Loss of appetite

Most children recover within seven to ten days without complications. However, in some cases, severe infections can lead to dehydration if children refuse to eat or drink due to painful mouth sores.

Prevention and Treatment

Since HFMD is a viral infection, there is no specific cure. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing dehydration. Doctors recommend:

• Drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
• Using pain relievers such as paracetamol to reduce fever and discomfort
• Applying soothing creams to relieve skin irritation
• Eating soft foods to avoid irritating mouth sores

To prevent the spread of HFMD, health experts recommend:

• Frequent handwashing with soap and water
• Disinfecting common surfaces and toys
• Avoiding close contact with infected individuals
• Keeping sick children at home until they recover

Conclusion

While the HFMD outbreak in East London remains under control, health officials are actively monitoring the situation and enforcing hygiene regulations in schools and daycare centres. With over 300 cases already confirmed in KwaZulu-Natal, authorities stress the importance of vigilance and preventative measures to curb further infections.

Parents, teachers, and caregivers are urged to educate children on hygiene practices and remain alert for symptoms of HFMD. If properly managed, most cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease resolve without serious complications, but early detection and proper care are essential in preventing widespread outbreaks.