More Hand, Foot and Mouth cases surface

While not describing it as an outbreak, the Ministry of Health and Wellness has confirmed that several schools have reported cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD).

On Monday, face-to-face classes were suspended at the Chandler's Pen Infant and Primary School in Clarendon after four suspected cases of the disease were reported among students from the infant department.

Adults and children can contract HFMD, however, children five years and under are more susceptible.

Persons affected may experience symptoms, including fever, loss of appetite, sore throat and may develop painful sores in the mouth. Rashes may also appear on the palms of hands and soles of the feet or other areas such as the knees, elbows and buttocks.

Members of the public have been encouraged to follow established infection, prevention and control measures to reduce the transmission of the disease. These include frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially following toilet use and before handling food; cleaning and disinfecting toys and other high-touch surfaces; and avoiding close contact with people who have the disease.

There is no specific treatment regimen for hand, foot and mouth disease. However, it has been recommended that immediate medical attention should be sought if children experience fever for more than 24 hours or develop signs and symptoms of dehydration.

Children who are sick should remain at home, the ministry said.