There are many active cases of Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease (HFMD) going around in local Roanoke Va Area (and all areas of Virginia) schools and daycares. This virus can hit kids AND adults. It is spreading quickly thru the entire commonwealth’s school system.
⚠️ Watch for symptoms:
• Fever
• Sore throat / feeling run down
• Painful mouth sores or blisters in/around the mouth
• Rash or red bumps on hands, feet, face, or diaper area
🧼 How it spreads:
• Close contact (kissing, hugging, sharing drinks/utensils)
• Coughs/sneezes and saliva
• Fluid from blisters
• Contaminated surfaces, toys, doorknobs, etc.
(Source: CDC and state health guidance. HFMD spreads easily in daycares and schools and is often caused by coxsackie viruses. Most people can get it, not just toddlers.)
🧼 What to do:
• Wash hands with soap and water, especially after bathroom/diaper changes
• Disinfect toys and high-touch surfaces
• Don’t share cups, utensils, chapstick, etc.
• Keep sick kids home so they don’t spread it
(CDC says most people recover in about 7–10 days with home care like fluids and fever/pain relief. Antibiotics don’t work on this because it’s viral.)
🚑 Get medical attention if:
• They stop drinking / signs of dehydration
• High fever that doesn’t come down
• Symptoms get worse instead of better
Severe complications are rare, but dehydration can happen because the mouth sores hurt.
Stay safe and keep those hands clean.