NATIONAL NEWS - The number of confirmed hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases in KZN has risen to 373.
This is according to the KZN Department of Health, which said yesterday that the eThekwini District accounts for most cases, followed by King Cetshwayo District, Ugu District and uMkhanyakude District.
According to an article published by The Witness, all infections in the province have been reported in primary schools and daycare centres.
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases has warned that, although rare, adults can contract the viral infection.
HFMD primarily affects children under 10 and spreads through direct contact with infected individuals, contaminated objects and respiratory droplets.
Symptoms usually appear within three to seven days and include fever, sore throat, fatigue, and small blisters on the mouth, hands and feet.
While there is no specific treatment, symptoms such as fever and pain can be managed with medication.
Most cases are resolved within a week, but severe infections may require medical attention.
The health department has urged schools, parents and caregivers to take extra precautions, including disinfecting shared items such as toys and stationery and keeping sick children at home to prevent further spread.
Updates and figures are issued by the Department of Health every 48 hours.
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