Department of Health
By Nkosana Khumalo
The Department of Health has reassured the public that the recent outbreak of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in KwaZulu-Natal, particularly around the Durban area, remains under control. The department is working closely with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) to monitor the situation and provide necessary support to the province to contain the spread.
Public Urged to Stay Calm as Authorities Monitor Outbreak
In a statement on Tuesday, the department emphasized that while cases have been reported, the outbreak does not currently pose a serious 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. However, parents and caregivers are urged to be vigilant in case their children display common symptoms such as fever, sore throat, tiredness, loss of appetite and small blisters on the inside of the mouth, sides of the tongue, palms of the hands and soles of the feet,” the department said.
HFMD is a common viral infection, primarily affecting infants and children under the age of five, and is generally mild. However, it spreads easily in environments such as schools and crèches, making it important for parents and educators to remain alert.
Symptoms and Recovery
According to the department, HFMD is usually a self-limiting disease, meaning that it resolves without medical treatment within seven to 10 days. Children who contract the virus typically experience symptoms such as:
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Tiredness
• Loss of appetite
• Small blisters on the inside of the mouth, tongue, hands, and feet
Parents are advised to keep symptomatic children at home until they fully recover to prevent further spread of the disease.
Preventative Measures and Hygiene Guidelines
Since HFMD spreads through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated objects like toys and stationery, the department has urged parents, schools, and caregivers to enforce strict hygiene practices.
“Hygiene practices are some of the most effective preventative and control methods to contain the spread of the disease. Educators and parents are encouraged to promote good hygiene habits at homes and in school environments, including regular hand-washing, covering the mouth when coughing, regularly cleaning surfaces, and not sharing eating utensils and stationery,” the department stated.
How HFMD Spreads
HFMD is caused by a group of viruses known as enteroviruses and typically occurs in small outbreaks in schools, crèches, and day-care centres, particularly in the summer and autumn months.
The virus is spread through:
• Direct contact with an infected person’s saliva, nasal secretions, or fluid from blisters
• Airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing
• Contact with contaminated surfaces such as toys, stationery, and furniture
• Exposure to faecal matter from an infected child (such as during nappy changes)
Although HFMD primarily affects children under the age of 10, adults with weakened immune systems may also be susceptible.
Clarification: HFMD is Not Related to Foot-and-Mouth Disease
The department also clarified that HFMD is entirely different from foot-and-mouth disease, also known as hoof-and-mouth disease, which affects livestock such as cattle and sheep. The two diseases are unrelated and caused by different viruses.
Health Authorities Remain Vigilant
While HFMD is not classified as a notifiable medical condition, the Department of Health has assured the public that it remains on high alert.
“Although HFMD is not part of the notifiable medical conditions, the department remains on high alert to monitor the number of cases in KZN and to detect outbreaks, if experienced, in other parts of the country,” the department said.
The department has been receiving multiple inquiries from the media and community members about the outbreak. It continues to work with health experts to track the situation and ensure early detection of any further cases.
Conclusion: Public Cooperation Essential in Managing the Outbreak
The outbreak of HFMD in KwaZulu-Natal has raised concerns, particularly among parents and educators, given its impact on young children. However, health authorities have reassured the public that the situation is under control and does not currently pose a major health risk.
Through continued monitoring, public cooperation, and adherence to hygiene guidelines, authorities aim to contain the outbreak effectively. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to prevent further spread.
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