MARTINSVILLE, Va. (rbs news now) — Martinsville City Public Schools (MCPS) has notified parents of a confirmed case of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) at Albert Harris Elementary School.

In a September 16 letter sent to families, MCPS School Health Coordinator Julie Riddle said a student had been diagnosed with the contagious viral illness.

The illness typically affects infants and young children but can occur at any age.

Common symptoms include fever, painful mouth sores, decreased appetite and a skin rash — often on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet but sometimes on the knees, elbows or buttocks.

People infected with HFMD may not develop all symptoms, and those who are sick are most contagious during the first week of illness, the letter said.

Riddle advised parents to keep children home when ill and for at least 24 hours after a fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medication.

Children with draining sores should not attend school until cleared by a healthcare provider.

Callie Hietala, MCPS communications and community outreach coordinator, said the letter is a standard notification from the Virginia Department of Health issued when a certain number of cases are confirmed.

“At AHES, our staff has implemented our deep-cleaning plan for all affected classrooms and common areas,” Hietala said. “Teachers and staff are also continuing to clean their classrooms daily, especially high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs and light switches, and students are encouraged to wash hands regularly.”

Hietala said the school division will continue working with the health department to monitor for additional cases and will take further action if necessary.

Families with questions can contact their healthcare provider or the local health department at 276-638-2311.

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