If you have received a School Rush message from the Clinic which directed you to this page, please be aware that your child may have be exposed to Hand, Foot, and Mouth (HFMD). After reviewing the information below, please contact your child's teacher or Division Head with any additional questions.
Hand, Foot & Mouth (HFMD). HFMD is a common viral infection that most often causes outbreaks in the summer and fall.
What are the symptoms of HFMD?
The illness is generally mild, with symptoms including tiny rash-like blisters in the mouth, on the palms of hands, buttocks, and soles of the feet. Common cold signs and symptoms with fever, sore throat, runny nose, and cough may also be present. The most troublesome finding often are the blisters in the mouth, which make it difficult for the child to eat or drink.
How is HFMD spread?
The virus is spread through coughing and sneezing, through the fluid from blisters on the hands and feet, or through contact with the infected person’s stool (feces). In order to limit the spread of the disease within the Early Learning Center, we will remove a child from his/her classroom and notify parents immediately upon noticing blisters, a fever, or if the child does not feel well enough to participate in classroom activities.
How is HFMD diagnosed and treated?
A health care provider can identify HFMD by the symptoms reported and the appearance and location of the blisters. No specific treatment is available. Symptoms may be treated to provide relief from fever or pain from the mouth blisters.
How do we control the spread?
The best defense involves frequent and thorough hand washing, and teaching children to cover their noses and mouths with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. When using a tissue, wash hands well afterwards. Please know that we are taking precautions in each classroom around handwashing, diaper changing, and cleaning of surfaces and toys.
How do I get more information?