Hey there, friends! Have you heard about Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)? 😮 It’s a common virus that mostly affects kids under 10 years old. Recently, in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province, there has been an outbreak of HFMD, with 168 cases reported around Durban.
But don’t worry! The health department says there’s no need to panic. 👍 They’re working hard to keep everyone safe. You can help too!
What is HFMD? 🤔
HFMD is caused by a virus called an enterovirus. It can make you feel unwell with symptoms like:
- Fever 🤒
- Sore throat 😖
- Feeling tired 😴
- Loss of appetite 🍽️
- Small blisters inside your mouth 👄, on your hands 🖐️, and feet 👣
If you notice any of these signs, tell your parents or a trusted adult right away.
How Does HFMD Spread? 🌍
The virus can spread easily from one person to another through:
- Direct contact, like touching or hugging 🤗
- Coughing or sneezing droplets 😮💨
- Touching contaminated objects or surfaces 🧸
How Can You Stay Healthy? 🌟
Here are some simple steps to keep yourself and others safe:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. 🧼🖐️
- Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing with a tissue or your elbow. 😷
- Don’t share cups, eating utensils, or school supplies. 🥤✏️
- Clean surfaces and toys regularly. 🧽
If you’re feeling sick, it’s important to stay home and rest until you feel better. HFMD usually gets better on its own in 7 to 10 days. 📆
Let’s Work Together! 🤝
By practicing good hygiene habits, we can help stop the spread of HFMD. Share these tips with your friends and family so everyone knows how to stay healthy. 🎉
Remember, staying clean and being careful helps everyone. Let’s keep each other safe and have fun! 😊
Reference(s):
South African health department calls for calm amid HFMD outbreak
cgtn.com
