10/14/25
Dear Parents/Guardians of Eastern Local School District Students,
Meigs County Health Department has recently become aware of an outbreak of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in the Eastern Local School District over the past couple weeks. Due to the number of possible cases and the ease in which the viruses that cause HFMD spread, we are making an immediate STRONG RECOMMENDATION to keep your child(ren) at home if they have any signs or symptoms of HFMD, which include:
fever,
headache,
sore throat,
painful mouth sores that blister, and
rash on the hands and feet.
Often, the first symptoms are fever, poor appetite and a general feeling of being unwell, so we are recommending the child stay home with even a mild or low-grade fever (99.0 degrees). One or two days after initial symptoms appear, mouth sores or blisters may appear followed by the rash. Sometimes, a rash may not occur. A child may have as little as just one symptom. HFMD symptoms are usually mild, typically last from 7 to 10 days and do not typically require medical treatment. However, if you are concerned about your child’s symptoms, you should consult their pediatrician or a medical provider.
HFMD is caused by viruses. A person infected with one of these viruses is very contagious, especially during the first week. This means they can pass the virus easily to other people. Unfortunately, the HFMD can spread through contact with:
Droplets with virus particles made after person sneezes, coughs, or talks
Objects and surfaces that have virus particles
Fluid from blisters
Poop
HFMD can affect anyone, but it is most common in infants and children younger than 5 years old. It is important that if you are pregnant, you contact your doctor if you think you may have been exposed to HFMD. Complications from HFMD are rare. However, your own medical history and how far along you are in your pregnancy can affect the situation.
To help prevent catching or spreading HFMD:
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after changing diapers, using the toilet, and coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
Help children wash their hands and keep blisters clean.
Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and shared items, including toys and doorknobs.
Avoid close contact with an infected person, such as hugging or kissing them
The Meigs County Health Department is asking parents/guardians of children who have been diagnosed (by a medical provider) with or have had symptoms of HFMD this school year to email me at leanne.cunningham@meigs-health.com or call (740) 992-6626 Monday through Friday between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM so that we can process the true number of children who have been affected by this outbreak.
Thank you,
Leanne Cunningham, BSN, RN
Director of Nursing