BVI Reports Spike in Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease Cases

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS – Health officials in the British Virgin Islands have reported a sharp rise in cases of hand, foot and mouth disease.

Officials confirming 66 infections across early childhood learning centres and pre-primary schools.

BVI’s acting chief medical officer Dr. Ronald Georges said the public health unit has enhanced surveillance as well as increased health inspections, public awareness and support for daycares and schools.

HFMD spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s saliva, respiratory droplets, blister fluid, or stool.

It can also be transmitted via contaminated surfaces or objects such as toys, doorknobs, and shared utensils.

Symptoms include fever, sore throat, painful mouth ulcers, skin rash on the hands, feet or buttocks, decreased appetite, irritability, and fatigue.