Specialist Dr. from the Department of Child Health and Diseases. Filiz Özdemir stated that hand, foot and mouth disease is generally seen in children of kindergarten and primary school age and said, “This disease mostly occurs in summer and autumn months, but the recent increase in cases in schools shows that the spread is accelerating.”
Dr. Özdemir stated that the most common symptoms of the disease include high fever, sore throat, rash on the hands and feet, and sores in the mouth. “Although these symptoms are generally mild, they can be transmitted quickly among children,” he said. Emphasizing that school toilets and common areas play an important role in the spread of the disease, Dr. Özdemir said, “It is much easier for the disease to spread, especially when common areas are not taken into consideration in terms of hygiene. When children come into contact with such viruses and put their hands in their mouths without washing them, the disease can be transmitted rapidly.” he said.
‘CORRECT HAND WASHING HABIT SHOULD BE ESTABLISHED’
Özdemir stated that hand washing is the most important measure in protecting against the disease and advised families to inculcate correct hand washing habits in their children. Dr. Filiz Özdemir stated that school administrations also have great responsibilities and said, “School administrations need to attach great importance to the hygiene of toilets and common areas. “Regular disinfection of these areas is very important to prevent the spread of the disease,” he said. Özdemir also reminded that children should not be sent to school if they show symptoms of the disease, and emphasized that contamination can be prevented in this way.
Dr. states that hand, foot and mouth disease is generally mild, but can have more serious consequences in children and babies with weak immune systems. Özdemir said, “Families should carefully monitor their children’s disease symptoms and consult a health institution in case of any doubt.”
DHA