Hand Foot and Mouth - Coxsackievirus
In keeping with our policy, we wanted to inform you that we have cases of Hand, Foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in our school. Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection in infants and children. It is characterized by fever, sores in the mouth and a rash with blisters. HFMD begins with a mild fever, poor appetite, malaise (“feeling sick”) and frequently a sore throat. One or two days after the fever begins, sores develop in the mouth. They begin as small red spots that blister and then often become ulcers. They are usually located on the tongue, gums and inside of the cheeks. The skin rash develops over 1-2 days with flat or raised red spots, some with blisters. The rash doesn't itch, and it is usually located on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It may also appear on the buttocks. A person with HFMD may have only the rash or the mouth ulcers.
HFMD is moderately contagious. Infection is spread from person-to-person by direct contact with nose and throat discharges or the stool of infected persons. A person is most contagious during the first week of the illness and up to 2 weeks, even if they are feeling better. The usual period from infection to onset of symptoms is 3-6 days. Fever is often the first symptom of HFMD.
No specific treatment is available for this infection. Symptomatic treatment is given to provide relief from fever, aches and pain from the mouth ulcers. Preventive measures include strict frequent hand washing, disinfection of contaminated surfaces by household cleaners and washing soiled articles of clothing.
The student may return to school 24 hrs after they are fever free and if there are no open sores.
If Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is suspected, contact your physician. If your physician confirms a case of Hand, Foot and Mouth disease please contact the school nurse.