Health officials are seeing an increase in hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) across the Rappahannock Area Health District, with three outbreaks reported since August in daycare centers and elementary schools.
The Virginia Department of Health is also noting more HFMD-related visits and outbreaks statewide this year. HFMD is a contagious viral illness that causes fever, mouth sores, and rash, and spreads easily through close contact or contaminated surfaces.
“While common this time of year, Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease can be very distressing to both child and parent,” said Dr. David Rose, Interim Health Director for Rappahannock Area Health District said in a press release. “It spreads quickly in group settings, so children should stay home until they’ve been fever-free for 24 hours and are feeling better.”
Health officials also encourage frequent handwashing, disinfecting shared surfaces, and avoiding close contact with those who are sick.
