It has come to the attention of the school that a virus causing Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is present in our community.  Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease is a common viral illness that occurs more frequently in summer and early autumn.  In many people, infection with the virus causes mild or no symptoms.  In others, infection may result in painful blisters in the mouth, on the gums and tongue, on the palms and fingers of the hand or on the soles of the feet.  The fluid in these blisters contains the virus, and symptoms may last for 7-10 days.  The infection usually goes away without any serious complications.

HFMD is moderately contagious.  Infection is spread from person to person direct contact with nose and throat discharges or the stool of infected persons. HFMD is most contagious during the first week of the illness. There is no specific treatment for the virus.  The best way to help prevent the spread of HFMD is to use good hand washing technique and cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing,.

 If you suspect that your child may have HFMD, it please keep him or her home if they are feeling ill, have a fever, open weeping blisters or blisters in the mouth.