Recently, it has been confirmed that Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease is present at Middletown High School. MHS’s registered nurse, Sandra Hoffman along with the administration sent home a letter alerting families of this and providing information regarding the disease and the prevention of it.
“Being aware of the symptoms, preventing the spread by staying away from others until symptoms improve are essential,” said Hoffman, “remembering basic things such as washing your hands often, covering coughs and sneezes, can prevent the spread of many illnesses.”
Symptoms include, but are not limited to blisters, ulcers, skin rashes, a fever and other common flu-like symptoms.
There are no specific antibiotics to cure Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease, but the symptoms can be treated. If blistering occurs, make sure they aren’t draining and are covered if possible. This is to avoid the spreading of the disease.
“It’s a little scary that it’s going around and I help teach the Knee-High Knights kids, so I really don’t want them to get it,” said MHS senior, Marisa Mirani.
Anyone can get Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease, but outbreaks most commonly occur among adolescents.
“Custodians are going above and beyond to disinfect the school,” said Hoffman.
“I’m a huge germaphobe so I’m just washing my hands a lot and using my brain when it comes to things like sharing drinks,” said MHS sophomore Jack Frey.
Symptoms tend to occur three to five days after being exposed which is called the incubation period, and often last about a week or so.
“Some cases are milder than others, but symptoms can be treated to minimize the discomfort this virus may cause. We should continue to raise awareness to prevent spreading it to others,” Hoffman added.
