Rising cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease reported

Health officials in Virginia report rising cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease among children.

Increase in Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease cases noted in Virginia

Health officials in Fairfax County, Virginia, have reported a noticeable rise in cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) among children. In total, six cases have been documented, with five occurring in the last two months. Tiffany Kimbrough, a pediatrician at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond, emphasizes the virus's contagious nature, especially prevalent in summer and commonly spread in daycare environments. Symptoms include blisters on hands, feet, and even the throat, which can cause significant discomfort for children as they eat and drink. Hygiene practices, particularly thorough hand washing, are crucial to contain the virus, as it spreads through respiratory droplets and contact with infected surfaces. While HFMD is generally not fatal, attention to hydration is essential to avoid complications.

The rise in Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease cases highlights the ongoing public health challenge of contagious viruses in communal settings like daycare centers. With the current uptick in incidents, parents should remain vigilant about hygiene and monitor their children closely. This situation not only affects the immediate health of the children but may also lead to broader community concerns as more cases surface. It sheds light on the importance of maintaining good sanitation practices and demonstrates how quickly viruses can spread in close environments during warmer months.

Highlights

Ongoing monitoring and good hygiene are critical in managing this outbreak.