Warning issued over ‘very contagious’ disease spreading across dozens of schools and childcare centers in Tennessee
Contagious hand, foot and mouth disease spreading in schools across Tennessee
- An ongoing outbreak of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) has affected 31 schools and three childcare centres in Tennessee.
- As of Monday, at least 178 students and staff members have been impacted since the first cases were identified in late August.
- Health officials describe HFMD as "very contagious" but "usually not serious," primarily affecting children under five but also transmissible to adults.
- The virus spreads through droplets, contact with contaminated surfaces, blister fluid, and faeces, causing symptoms like fever, sore throat, mouth sores, and a rash.
- To prevent further spread, authorities advise frequent hand washing, cleaning surfaces, and keeping sick children at home until symptoms improve.