Tuesday, October 11, 2022

 

Dear Parent(s) and/or Guardian(s):

 

We have received report of two confirmed cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFM) a common viral illness, usually seen in the Spring through Fall, that can cause fever, painful blisters in the mouth, throat, on the hands, feet, buttocks and thighs.   HFM spreads easily through contact with unwashed hands, feces, saliva, mucous from the nose or fluid from the blisters. Dehydration may occur due to fever and painful swallowing.  HFM is most common in kids under the age of 7 but can affect older children.  Infections are most common in day care centers, preschools, schools and other places where kids are close together.

 

There is no cure for HFM and no vaccine to prevent it, however, the following measures can be used to keep your child comfortable:  Acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed (never aspirin), cold foods like ice cream, smoothies, popsicles. Try to avoid hot drinks, sodas and acidic foods (juices, tomato sauce, etc.). Make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

Blistered areas should be kept clean and uncovered.  Wash the skin with lukewarm soap and water, pat dry.  If a blister pops, a bit of antibiotic ointment can be applied to prevent infection and cover with a small bandage.

 

HFM virus usually runs its course in about a week with mouth sores healing more quickly than those on the hands and feet, which can last around 10 days. Your child should be able to return to school once their fever has resolved (at least 24 hours fever free) and open blisters on the skin or mouth have resolved.

 

Calling your doctor is recommended if your child is sluggish, seems to be getting worse, cannot be comforted, is irritable or signs of dehydration are evident (dry sticky mouth, sunken eyes, urinating less than usual).

 

Handwashing is the best prevention. Remind everyone in your family to wash well and often, especially after using the bathroom and before eating or preparing food.  

 

All staff have been educated and are reminding and encouraging our kids to wash their hands frequently.  Any child who is not feeling well is sent to the Nurse’s office promptly for evaluation.

 

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact myself or Mary Colfer, RN at the school.

 

Sincerely,

 

Suzanne Gladstone, RN

ACS School Nurse