By Sibhekisipho Fayayo
Durban: The Department of Health has called for calm following an outbreak of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in KwaZulu-Natal, primarily in the Durban area. While the department, in conjunction with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), is closely monitoring the situation, officials have reassured the public that the outbreak is currently contained and does not pose a significant public health threat.
“There is no need for the public to panic because the outbreak remains under control and at the current moment there is no serious public health threat detected,” the department stated.
HFMD, a common viral infection primarily affecting infants and children, typically presents with symptoms such as fever, sore throat, fatigue, loss of appetite, and small blisters inside the mouth, on the tongue, palms, and soles of the feet. While most cases resolve within 7 to 10 days without medication, the department advises that a small number of individuals may require hospitalization for complications. “Infected individuals with severe disease or complications must go to the nearest healthcare facility,” the department emphasized.
Parents and caregivers are urged to remain vigilant for these symptoms and to keep children exhibiting signs of HFMD at home until they have recovered to prevent further transmission. The department also stressed the importance of hygiene practices in controlling the spread of the disease. “Hygiene practices are some of the most effective preventative and control methods to contain the spread of the disease, hence educators and parents are encouraged to promote good hygiene habits at homes and school environment including regular hand-washing, covering mouth when coughing, regularly cleaning surfaces and not sharing eating utensils and stationery.”
HFMD, caused by enteroviruses, often occurs in small outbreaks in schools, crèches, and daycare centers, particularly during the summer and autumn months. The virus spreads through direct contact, respiratory droplets, contaminated objects, and fecal matter. Children under 10 are most susceptible, though adults with weakened immune systems can also be infected.
The department clarified that HFMD, which affects humans, is distinct from foot-and-mouth disease, a disease affecting livestock. “HFMD affects humans and it is completely different from foot-and-mouth disease, otherwise known as hoof-and-mouth disease which mainly affects farm animals like sheep and cattle. Thus, the two diseases are not related and are caused by different viruses.”
Although HFMD is not a notifiable medical condition, the Department of Health remains on high alert, monitoring case numbers in KwaZulu-Natal and across the country to detect any potential outbreaks
