The increasing cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease in schools and daycare centers across KwaZulu-Natal have raised alarm among parents, who are now demanding that schools be closed. Following reports of at least 195 confirmed cases, the KwaZulu-Natal Health Department conducted visits to educational institutions in Durban.

NUMBERS INCREASING

The first six cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease were reported between 6 and 10 February. According to the Provincial Department of Health, the eThekwini district has 120 cases, followed by King Cetshwayo with 25 cases, uGu district has 20 cases, and uMkhanyakude district has three confirmed cases. A parent who did not want to be named said they cannot keep their children at home because they need to go to work. "The department is not saying how they can help us." Some parents have suggested school closure due to the rising cases of viral infection. "If the department can't do anything about this, it may be wise to temporarily close the schools until they can effectively manage the infection," said a mother of a toddler who is in creche. Spokesperson Ntokozo Maphisa said they are concerned about the increasing numbers and appealed for calm. "It is important for people to understand HFMD, including what it is, how it can be prevented, its symptoms, and how it is transmitted. We urge parents to ensure that children have no direct contact with persons who are ill. Those who are affected by HFMD, with severe disease or complications, are urged to visit the nearest healthcare facility. Learners who are symptomatic of HFMD should be kept at home until they feel better,' Maphisa said.

WHAT IS HFMD

There is no specific treatment for hand-foot-and-mouth disease; however, parents and guardians are urged to clean surfaces regularly and avoid sharing stationery, toys, and other items. According to WHO, hand-foot-and-mouth disease is common among young children. It is a mild yet contagious viral infection. The common signs and symptoms include a sore throat, a high fever, loss of appetite, tiredness, and small blisters on the inside of the mouth, tongue, palms of the hands, and feet. The symptoms usually start three to seven days after infection. HFMD can spread from person to person by direct contact or by droplets from the mouth or nose of an infected person.