Date: October 14, 2021
Dear Parents/Guardians:
Your child may have been exposed to Hand Foot & Mouth Disease (HFMD). There has been an outbreak of HFMD in various schools and daycares throughout the valley. We have now heard of two children within our own elementary who are symptomatic. HFMD is a viral illness that affects mainly infants and children, however adults can also contract this disease. Pregnant women and persons with weakened immune systems who are exposed to hand, foot, and mouth disease should contact their health care provider.
While this is a contagious virus, it is not life threatening. However, your immediate attention is required to ensure that the virus is not spread. Please follow the guidelines below.
SYMPTOMS OF HAND FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE
The first symptoms of HFMD are usually fever, sore throat, loss of appetite and feeling sick. Several days after fever begins, small red spots develop in the mouth that may turn into blisters or ulcers. A skin rash can also develop on the hands, feet, and buttocks, and sometimes on the arms and legs. The rash may be raised or flat red spots and blisters. Not everyone with HFMD has all these symptoms.
HOW SOON DO SYMPTOMS OF HAND FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE APPEAR?
Symptoms of HFMD usually appear 3-7 days after initial exposure and infection.
HOW IS HFMD SPREAD?
HFMD is commonly spread by contact with an infected person’s nasal discharge, saliva, stool, or blister fluid. A person is most contagious during the first week of the illness.
HOW IS HFMD TREATED?
There is no specific treatment. Almost all children with HFMD recover on their own. People with HFMD should rest and drink liquids to prevent dehydration. You may contact your child’s health provider for other suggestions on how to treat the disease.
HOW CAN HFMD BE PREVENTED?
Everyone in the household of a person with HFMD should thoroughly wash their hands with soap and water after using the toilet, changing diapers, and having contact with nasal, saliva and blister discharge.
WHEN CAN MY CHILD RETURN TO SCHOOL?
Children can return to school when their fever goes away and their sores have healed.