The outbreak initially reported with six cases about a week ago, has now escalated to 36 infected children. It is important to note that this virus is unrelated to foot-and-mouth disease, which occurs among farm animals.

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is a mild viral infection, commonly affecting young children. The virus is transmitted through direct contact or droplets from the mouth or nose. The American Mayo Clinic, a non-profit organisation focusing on health education and research, describes the infection as usually mild.

In response to the outbreak, the KwaZulu-Natal Health Department has called for calm and issued guidelines to manage the situation. They have advised that sick children should be sent home for the duration of the infection.

The symptoms of hand-foot-and-mouth disease include fever, sore throat, and small blisters on the inside of the mouth, sides of the tongue, palms, and soles of the feet.

Teachers and caregivers are encouraged to take preventive measures, such as keeping windows open, promoting regular hand-washing, avoiding the sharing of items like utensils or toys among children, and frequently cleaning surfaces.

--SABC/ChannelAfrica--