411
Adult Cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Surge in KZN, Along with Child Infections
The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Department of Health has confirmed a surge in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases, with a reported 420 child infections and four adult cases across the province. The disease, which primarily affects children under the age of five, has spread across several districts, including Harry Gwala.
Rising Case Numbers and Affected Areas
According to Ntokozo Maphisa, spokesperson for the KZN Department of Health, the majority of cases have been reported in primary schools and daycare centers, putting these facilities under close observation. The department is actively collaborating with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) to monitor and manage the situation.
“While HFMD is a fairly common viral infection, we are seeing a significant number of cases, and we are taking proactive measures to prevent further spread,” Maphisa said. The symptoms of HFMD typically manifest between three to seven days after exposure, with the illness lasting between seven to ten days.
Health Protocols and Preventive Measures
In response to the rise in cases, the NICD has urged parents and educators to promote stringent hygiene practices. Key preventive steps include encouraging regular handwashing, avoiding shared utensils, and ensuring that commonly used items such as toys and stationery are cleaned regularly.
The department has also noted that KZN has faced similar health challenges in the past, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and believes that the same focus on hygiene and early intervention will help control the HFMD outbreak.
Regional Spread and Impact on the Eastern Cape
Meanwhile, the disease has spread beyond KZN, with at least 10 confirmed cases reported in East London, Eastern Cape. The Buffalo City Municipality confirmed that these cases were also concentrated in primary schools and daycare centers, particularly in the northern region of the district.
As the province intensifies its efforts to curb the spread of HFMD, the focus remains on education, vigilance, and continued collaboration with national health bodies.
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
