Hand Foot Mouth Disease Spikes Across 70 US Schools, Daycares

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), a highly contagious viral illness primarily affecting young children but also teens and adults, is causing significant outbreaks in several U.S. regions. Prince George’s County Public Schools in Maryland reported cases at over 40 schools, prompting enhanced cleaning protocols and calls for diligent hand washing and staying home when symptomatic to curb the spread. Similarly, Alabama daycares are on alert with health officials advising parents to watch for early symptoms and keep children home until cleared by a doctor. In Tennessee, nearly 200 students and staff across 31 schools and daycare centers have been affected since late August, with health officials emphasizing infection control measures and advising parents to keep sick children home until fully recovered. Across all areas, symptoms include fever, sore throat, cold-like signs, and painful blisters and rashes on hands, feet, and in the mouth, lasting about a week to 10 days. Health experts stress that while HFMD is usually mild, its easy transmissibility in group settings necessitates vigilant hygiene and cleaning practices to limit outbreaks.