The Department of Health in KwaZulu-Natal has announced an outbreak of Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease (HFMD) in certain districts in the province, with some schools affected by the outbreak. HFMD is an infectious disease that causes blisters, sores, and rash in and around the mouth, hands, and other parts of the body. The University’s Head of Health Services, Sister Nomusa Mkhwanazi, said the symptoms appear at least three to six days after infection. The symptoms include a sore throat, tiredness, loss of appetite, fever, blisters, and sores. Most people get better within seven to 14 days. HFMD is transmitted through infected body fluids like saliva, nasal secretions, and fluid from the blisters. It can also spread through droplets from sneezing and coughing, through contaminated surfaces and objects like toys, and stationary, utensils, and contaminated faecal matter. There is no specific treatment for HFMD, but symptoms can be treated with over-the-counter remedies. If infected, it is important to stay hydrated by drinking at least two litres of water in 24 hours.
Sister Mkhwanazi advised that medical attention must be sought immediately if one has a weakened immune system, or if the symptoms are severe; or they do not improve within 10 days. “To minimise transmission of infection, staff and students must practice basic hand hygiene – wash hands regularly, especially after touching contaminated surfaces, practise the cough etiquette, clean and sanitise commonly shared surfaces, and avoid contact with people who are infected or have HFMD symptoms,” said Sister Mkhwanazi.