We have begun to see a few cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease which is also known as Coxsackie Virus
What is it?
It is a mild, contagious viral infection common in young children. Symptoms include sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet. Children may get a fever and develop a sore throat. They sometimes lose their appetites and don't feel well. One or two days after the fever begins, painful sores may develop in the front of the mouth or throat. A rash on the hands and feet and sometimes on the buttocks may also appear.
Is it Contagious?
A person is most contagious during the first week of illness. Exclusion from school is not recommended unless the child is too ill to participate in daily activities.
The illness spreads person to person by nose and throat discharge, saliva, fluid from blisters, stool, or respiratory droplets that spread through the air after a cough or sneeze. The usual period from initial infection to the time symptoms appear (incubation period) is 3 to 6 days.
How do I prevent my child from getting this illness?
There is no vaccine. Practicing good hygiene, especially frequent hand washing, is recommended. Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth. Clean frequently touched surfaces and shared items.
How do I treat the illness?
Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is usually a minor illness. It typically only causes fever and mild symptoms for a few days. Call your healthcare provider if your child is younger than six months, has a weakened immune system, or has mouth sores or a sore throat that makes it painful to drink fluids. Call your provider, too, if your child's symptoms don't improve after 10 days.
Who do I tell?
Be sure to call our School Nurse, Mrs. Burton
The clinic is in need of gently worn clothes. If you have any of the following items, please consider donating them to the clinic:
Boys sweatpants: Sizes 6-12
Girls leggings: Sizes 5-8
Girls shorts: Sizes 6-14
Girls shirts: Sizes 6-12
Thank you for your kindness and generosity.
Please contact Mrs. Burton with any questions at:
Phone: 440-974-5407.
Fax : 440-974-5285
Email: [email protected]