Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) has seemingly reemerged in the territory following the detection of eight suspected cases by the Environmental Health Division (EHD).
According to a media release on Wednesday, August 17, the suspected cases have prompted the EHD to heighten their surveillance of early childhood centers across the British Virgin Islands.
Speaking on the incident, Chief Environmental Health Officer Mr. Lionel Michael listed some of the early symptoms of the disease and spoke about how it is usually transmitted.
“Hand foot and mouth 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,” Michael stated.
“Symptoms usually begin with a fever, sore throat, reduced appetite and a general feeling of being unwell. Within two days of the onset of 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,” he further explained.
How to curb the spread
Michael also encouraged owners and teachers at these establishments as well as parents, to be watchful for any HFMD symptoms.
He said to help curb the spread of the disease, the respective persons should implement safety practices including washing hands often with soap and water, especially after changing diapers and encouraged adults to help young children practice the same measures.
“We are therefore advising that the owners, employees and parents of early childhood centers be mindful of the aforementioned contributing factors to help curb the spread of contagious/infectious diseases,” he said.
The Environmental Health Division boss also advised that persons should avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
He said surfaces and objects such as toys and doorknobs should be disinfected, warning that persons should also avoid close contact such as hugging, kissing and sharing eating utensils with persons who are infected with HFMD.
Bi-annual training
The CEHO also spoke about the bi-annual teachers’ training for all early childhood professionals that are conducted by the Environmental Health Division in collaboration with the Ministry of Education to help prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
“The training encompasses personal hygiene, child safety, infection control and food hygiene. The intent of these training sessions is to introduce and refresh teachers of the essential practices required to keep themselves and our children safe and healthy,” Michael stated.