The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) is assuring the public that there’s no need to panic despite the recent increase in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases in KwaZulu-Natal.

According to the NICD, the situation is under control, and efforts are being made to prevent the spread of the disease.

Outbreak in KwaZulu-Natal Sparks Concern, But Health Officials Call for Calm

The outbreak began in early February 2025, with the first cases confirmed in schools in the northern parts of Durban, specifically in the Phoenix area.

As of now, the number of confirmed cases has risen to 195, prompting the health department to address public concerns and urge calm.

The NICD has been working closely with the health department to monitor the situation.

They have also been providing support to help contain the spread of this common viral infection, which predominantly affects young children and infants.

What is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

HFMD is caused by enteroviruses and typically occurs during the summer and autumn months.

Outbreaks are most commonly seen in schools, day-care centers, and crèches, where children are in close contact with one another.

Children under 10 years old are at the highest risk, but adults with weak immune systems can also become infected.

The disease spreads from person to person and can be transmitted through contaminated objects, as well as through faeces.

NICD Urges Parents and Caregivers to Stay Vigilant

Although the NICD reassures the public that the outbreak is currently under control, they are calling for continued vigilance.

Parents and caregivers are urged to keep an eye out for symptoms of HFMD in their children.

While most cases of HFMD are mild and resolve on their own, a small number of individuals may develop complications and require hospital treatment.

If someone experiences severe symptoms or complications, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.

Symptoms to Watch For

The NICD highlighted the key symptoms of HFMD, which include:

Fever
Sore throat
Tiredness
Loss of appetite
Small blisters inside the mouth, on the sides of the tongue, on the palms of the hands, and the soles of the feet

Although there’s no specific treatment for HFMD, most children recover within 7 to 10 days without medication.

However, parents are urged to keep children with symptoms at home to prevent spreading the disease further.

What’s Being Done to Monitor the Situation?

While Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is not classified as a notifiable medical condition, the health department remains on high alert to track case numbers in KwaZulu-Natal and across the country.

The authorities are prepared to detect any further outbreaks and respond accordingly.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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