Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Now in 53 Schools in Jamaica
On Wednesday the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) announced that the recent outbreak of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)has spread to 53 schools in Jamaica.
HFMD is generally characterized by a mild fever followed by a rash of flat discolored spots and bumps that may blister, involving the skin of the hands, feet, mouth, and occasionally the buttocks and genitalia.
It is highly contagious and can be transmitted via secretions such as saliva or nasal mucus, by direct contact, or by fecal-oral transmission.
According to SERHA, 11 schools are affected in Kingston and St. Andrew; 18 in St Thomas and 24 in St Catherine. Four additional schools are being investigated in Kingston and St Andrew and another nine schools in St Catherine, said SERHA.
Parents are being requested to keep children with the disease at home to reduce the likelihood of it spreading among the school population. A child with the disease is most contagious during the first week of illness and so it is important to keep infected children away from the school population for at least seven days, SERHA said.
The Health Authority also stated:
“There is no vaccine to prevent the disease. However, simple steps like regular hand washing and practicing good hygiene can help reduce the risk of infection,” said the health authority.
Source: Loop News