The Ministry of Health and Social Development is encouraging parents to remain vigilant as Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is on the rise in the Territory.

Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Ronald Georges reported “There have been 12 suspected cases identified in five different daycare and preschool facilities locally, as well as one suspected adult case.”

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD), is a generally mild disease caused by a group of viruses called Coxsackie Viruses. It mainly affects infants and young children (less than five years old) but can also occur in older children and adults.

According to Dr. Georges, the disease is spread from person to person through coughing, sneezing, and contact with infected feces through changing a diaper, or touching surfaces or objects which have been contaminated with the virus.

HFMD occurrences often happen where young children are constantly in close contact with each other in schools, day cares and nurseries.

“Symptoms usually begin with a fever, sore throat, reduced appetite and a general feeling of being unwell,” Dr. Georges said. He added that within a day or two after the first symptoms, a rash and bumps may appear on the soles of the feet, palms of the hands and inside the mouth. A rash may also develop on the elbows, knees and buttocks. The bumps may blister but do not cause itching.”

Dr. Georges noted that some persons may have the disease, but do not show any symptoms and can still pass the virus on to others. The illness is usually mild and persons usually recover from the disease between seven to 10 days.

 “We need daycare institutions to adhere to proper hygiene and sanitation practices and sick children should be kept at home until they are well to limit spread of the infection in schools and day care institutions,” Dr. Georges concluded.

There is no specific treatment for HFMD, but symptoms can be treated to provide relief. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to manage the fever and pain. Persons with the virus need to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration. Cold liquids are usually preferable. Spicy and acidic foods should be avoided as they may cause discomfort.

To reduce the risk of getting infected with HFMD and prevent the spread of the virus, parents and care workers are encouraged to wash hands often with soap and water, especially after changing diapers. Adults should help young children do the same. 

Persons should avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Disinfect surfaces and objects, such as toys and doorknobs.  Persons should also avoid close contact such as hugging, kissing and sharing eating utensils with persons who have HFMD.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is committed to improving the health of the people of the Virgin Islands.