The Ministry of Health and Human Services issues advisory on Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease  

Turks and Caicos, September 20, 2024 – As schools and day-care centres across the community welcome children back, the Ministry of Health and Human Services is encouraging parents and educators to stay alert for cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD). To date, 16 cases of HFMD have been identified in school-aged children on the island of Providenciales between July and September 2024. HFMD is a common viral illness that typically affects young children under the age of 5 years but can affect anyone. While HFMD is generally mild, it spreads quickly in environments such as classrooms and playgrounds where kids are in close contact. This is why it is important for families and schools to take simple, effective steps to help prevent the spread of the virus.

HFMD is caused by a group of viruses, most commonly the Coxsackievirus. Parents and caregivers should keep an eye out for these symptoms:

1. Fever
2. Mouth sores – small, red spots inside the mouth that can be painful
3. Skin rash – often on the hands, feet, and buttocks
4. Sore throat
5. Loss of appetite
6. Irritability – particularly in infants and toddlers

Although most children recover fully within a week or so, HFMD can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, lead to dehydration if eating or drinking becomes painful.

The virus can be passed from one person to another through:

1. Close contact with infected bodily fluids like saliva, mucus, or stool.
2. Touching contaminated surfaces and toys.
3. Droplets in the air when someone sneezes or coughs.

This is why schools, day-care centres, and playgrounds are high-risk environments.

Here are some practical tips to help stop the spread of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease:

1. Frequent Handwashing:  Regular handwashing with soap and water is one of the best ways to prevent HFMD. Children should wash their hands after using the bathroom, before eating, and after playing outdoors. Teachers and caregivers can help by making handwashing a regular part of the day.
2. Clean and Disinfect Surfaces: Toys, countertops, and doorknobs should be cleaned and disinfected regularly, especially in shared spaces like classrooms and play areas.
3. Avoid Close Contact:   If your child has symptoms of HFMD, it is essential to keep them home from school or daycare. Allowing them time to rest at home prevents the virus from spreading to other children. Make sure they stay at home until their fever has gone down and their sores have healed.
4. Practice Good Hygiene Habits: Teach children to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing. Remind them not to share utensils, cups, or personal items with others.
5. Stay Hydrated: If your child has mouth sores, drinking fluids can be difficult, but staying hydrated is important. Offer soothing drinks like cold water or milk to help them stay comfortable.

In most cases, HFMD will clear up on its own within 7 to 10 days. Treatment is for symptoms. Take paracetamol (NOT ASPIRIN) to help soothe the sore mouth or throat.  Avoid hot, spicy or salty food. Antibiotics are not needed.

However, if your child is having trouble swallowing, shows signs of dehydration (such as not urinating much), or has a high fever that lasts more than a couple of days, it is time to consult your healthcare provider. By monitoring symptoms, practising good hygiene, and staying informed, we can all help reduce the spread of HFMD. Working together, parents, schools, and day-care centres can ensure that children stay healthy and continue to enjoy a safe learning environment.

For additional information, please visit the Ministry of Health and Human Services Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.