The Ministry of Health in Botswana announces a hand, foot, and mouth disease outbreak with 50 cases reported, mainly affecting young children in Gaborone and Francistown. Symptoms include fever and blistering rashes. The disease is manageable and resolves naturally within a week. Hygiene measures are advised to prevent further spread.
The Ministry of Health of Botswana has reported a new outbreak of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), with 50 cases identified nationwide. Christopher Nyanga, the permanent secretary, stated that the outbreak is confined to Gaborone and Francistown and primarily affects children under five years of age.
Nyanga emphasized the situation is manageable, indicating the identified cases have primarily surfaced in pre-schools. The typical symptoms include fever, sore throat, and rashes with blisters on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth.
The disease is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person’s saliva, nasal secretions, blister fluids, or feces, making it highly contagious in school and daycare environments.
Despite the outbreak, the Ministry has assured the public that HFMD typically resolves on its own within seven to ten days without any serious complications. Most affected children recover without any lasting effects.
In light of this outbreak, the Ministry encourages adherence to hygiene practices, including regular hand washing and disinfection, as well as isolating infected individuals. Continuous monitoring of the outbreak will be conducted by the Ministry, and further public advisories will follow.
According to the World Health Organization, HFMD is a widespread infectious disease that primarily affects children, although it can also impact older children and adults. While most cases are mild, there can be severe complications such as meningitis or paralysis in rare situations.
In conclusion, Botswana’s Ministry of Health has confirmed a modest outbreak of hand, foot, and mouth disease, predominantly affecting children under five in two cities. While the disease is easily spread, it is generally mild and manageable. The Ministry’s public health advisories and hygiene recommendations will help mitigate further spread, and ongoing monitoring will ensure public safety.
Original Source: www.mmegi.bw
