Increase in children with Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease in Harney County

HARNEY COUNTY(Released from Harney County Health Department)-We are seeing an increase in children with Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFM) in our community.

HFM is common childhood illness characterized by fever, sores in the mouth, and a rash with blisters. The disease begins with a low fever, poor appetite, and often a sore throat. Sores in the mouth may appear on the tongue, gums, and inside of cheeks. A couple of days later a skin rash may appear on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and occasionally the buttocks. The virus can be passed through saliva from blisters in the mouth and through the fluid from open blisters.

The infection typically goes away without any serious complications within 7-10 days. If you believe your child may have HFM, contact your health care provider for an evaluation and keep them home from school and childcare. Most children diagnosed with HFM can return to school or child care 72 hours after the fever has broken. However, if your child has mouth blisters and does not have control of drooling, open sores on their hands that cannot be covered, or cannot comfortably participate in planned activities, the school or child care facility may choose to send your child home.

Hand washing is an effective method of preventing the spread of germs; including HFM. Cleaning and sanitizing surfaces and items that may be soiled with body fluids is also extremely important. We encourage parents, child care workers, and school staff to assist children with proper hand washing techniques and good hygiene. If you have any additional questions please feel free to contact The Harney County Health Department at 541-573-2271.

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