Shelby County, October 21, 2025
News Summary
The Shelby County Health Department is responding to a serious outbreak of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) affecting 31 educational centers and 3 daycare centers. A total of 178 students and staff members have been diagnosed, prompting heightened health protocols and public health concerns. The outbreak, first identified in early September, has raised alarms among parents and health officials about the highly contagious nature of this viral illness, especially in group settings like schools and daycares.
Shelby County Experiences Significant Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Outbreak
The Shelby County Health Department (SCHD) is currently addressing a hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) outbreak that has impacted 31 educational centers and 3 daycare centers in Shelby County. As of recent reports, 178 students and staff members have been diagnosed with HFMD, raising concerns among parents and public health officials.
The outbreak was first identified in early September, with initial cases confirmed at Sherwood Elementary School at the end of August. Unfortunately, the health department did not receive notification about the first cases until early September, causing delays in response.
Overview of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
HFMD is a common viral illness primarily affecting young children, although older children and adults can also contract it. Symptoms typically appear between 3 to 6 days after exposure and include:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Small red spots or blisters on the mouth, hands, feet, or buttocks
The illness generally lasts between 7 to 10 days, and its highly contagious nature poses risks in group settings such as schools and daycares. HFMD can spread through respiratory droplets, direct contact with saliva, nasal secretions, blister fluid, and fecal-oral transmission.
Preventive Measures and Health Recommendations
To help control the spread of HFMD, parents are advised to keep sick children at home until they are fever-free, feeling well, and show signs of recovery from mouth sores or blisters. Additionally, parents and caregivers can limit the spread of the disease through the following actions:
- Frequent handwashing
- Cleaning and disinfecting shared surfaces
- Teaching children to cover coughs and sneezes
- Avoiding sharing personal items
School District Response
The Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) district is actively reinforcing safety protocols and enhancing cleaning and hygiene measures across all schools. The district encourages families to keep ill children at home and has assigned school nurses and attendance liaisons to closely monitor and report HFMD cases. Furthermore, MSCS intends to provide additional soap and hand sanitizer in schools while collaborating with the health department on monitoring and reporting HFMD cases.
A fact sheet on HFMD is accessible on the Shelby County Health Department’s website for those seeking further information.
Key Facts Summary
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Affected Schools | 31 educational centers and 3 daycare centers |
| Total Diagnosed Cases | 178 students and staff members |
| Location of Initial Outbreak | Sherwood Elementary School |
| Typical Duration of Illness | 7 to 10 days |
FAQ
What is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
HFMD is a common viral illness primarily affecting young children, though older children and adults can also contract it.
What are the common symptoms of HFMD?
Symptoms typically manifest 3 to 6 days after exposure and include fever, sore throat, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and small red spots or blisters on the mouth, hands, feet, or buttocks.
How does HFMD spread?
The virus can spread through respiratory droplets, direct contact with saliva, nasal secretions, blister fluid, and fecal-oral transmission.
What should parents do if their child is sick?
Parents are advised to keep sick children home until they are fever-free, feeling well, and mouth sores or blisters have improved.
What measures are schools taking to address the outbreak?
Memphis-Shelby County Schools is reinforcing safety protocols and implementing enhanced cleaning and hygiene measures districtwide.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Outbreak in Shelby County
Outbreak of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease at Sherwood Elementary
Investigation Underway for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease at Sherwood Elementary
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Confirmed at Sherwood Elementary
Additional Resources
- Action News 5
- Local Memphis
- Commercial Appeal
- Wikipedia: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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