This is Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD), a viral illness that is widespread among children, and is spreading quickly in Delhi and the neighbouring state, Haryana, in 2025. Administration of schools and health authorities have taken warnings to parents and teachers and advised them to be careful since the infection is, to a large extent, an infection of children below the age of ten years.
What is HFMD?
The virus that causes HFMD is the coxsackievirus A16, and it is easily transmitted by close contact, respiratory droplets, or contaminated surfaces. Although it is not life-threatening, it may be uncomfortable to young children and cause complications in some rare cases. The symptoms usually appear 3 to 6 days following the exposure.
Symptoms and Signs
The disease is usually marked by fever, sore throat and fatigue. In a matter of days the mouth and hands, feet, and in some cases the buttocks are covered by painful blisters. Mouth sores cause problems in eating or drinking among children. The rash is not usually itchy, but its appearance may change depending on the skin tone. Majority of the cases can be cured within 7 to 10 days.
How It Spreads
The recent outbreak of cases is attributed to the monsoon season which brings about humid climatic conditions conducive to viral diseases. Children who spend so much time in the indoors in close contact, also increase the chances of transmission.
Prevention and Control
Health officers emphasize the need to wash hands frequently or maintain good hygiene. Children who are infected are supposed to be kept at home until they are completely cured so as to avoid the transmission of the disease. Schools have been requested to keep a close check on children in case of symptoms and shut sick students back home. It is recommended that sick children should not be sent to school by their parents.
Treatment and Care
The HFMD does not have a particular antiviral therapy. Physicians prescribe symptomatic treatment as fever-lowering drugs, a lot of fluids, and soft, home-cooked food to alleviate the pain. It is also advised that the parents should ensure a high level of hygiene and keep off outside or packaged food during recovery.
Public Health Response
Guidelines to schools and parents have been given by Directorate of Education in Delhi. Awareness drives are in progress to be done to emphasize on early detection and isolation. Cases are being reported daily in the hospitals, but the greater number are mild. There is some light at the end of the tunnel since, according to health experts, with care, rest, and hygiene, children can easily recover.