A reliable source has confirmed that several children from a nursery and primary school on the East Coast Demerara, presented with symptoms suggestive of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) on Monday, March 10, 2025.
According to the United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HFMD is a common viral infection that typically causes fever, painful mouth sores, and a rash. It spreads rapidly in schools and daycare centers. The symptoms of HFMD include fever, sore throat, painful mouth sores that blister, and a rash, usually on the hands and feet. Most people recover on their own within 7 to 10 days, and complications from the disease are rare.
Reports indicate that several children were sent home from school on Monday with rashes on their skin, mouth, and other parts of their bodies. It is also understood that children of a senior education officer reportedly attend this school, raising further concerns.
What is even more troubling is that while the primary division of the school (upstairs) is closed today, Tuesday, March 11, 2025, the nursery division (downstairs) remains open, potentially putting younger children at greater risk of potential infection.
HFMD primarily spreads through direct contact with the fluid from blisters on an infected person’s skin, respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, and contaminated surfaces or feces. The virus spreads through close contact with an infected individual’s saliva, blister fluid, or contaminated surfaces, followed by touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.
To prevent the spread of HFMD, experts recommend frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially after changing diapers or before eating; disinfecting shared surfaces and toys; keeping infected individuals home from school or daycare until their blisters have dried; avoiding close contact with infected people; and covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow.
As of the time of this story going to publication, neither the Ministry of Health nor the Ministry of Education has issued an official alert or statement regarding the situation, nor have they provided guidance to address concerns it may/may not be HFMD, and concerns about a potential outbreak.
