Memphis, TN, September 3, 2025
News Summary
Multiple cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) have been confirmed at Sherwood Elementary School in Memphis. Parents were alerted through various channels, and the school has heightened sanitation measures to prevent further spread. Symptoms of HFMD include fever, mouth sores, and rashes. While usually mild, it raises concerns among parents, particularly regarding potential complications. Parents are advised to monitor their children and keep them home if symptoms develop, with ongoing updates from the school.
Memphis, TN – Several cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) have been confirmed at Sherwood Elementary School in Memphis, according to announcements made by Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS). Parents were informed about the cases on August 27 through various communication methods, including email, robocalls, and text messages. However, the exact number of HFMD cases reported at the school has not been disclosed.
In response to the situation, MSCS is implementing heightened sanitary measures by disinfecting classrooms to prevent further spread of the illness. Parents are being advised to closely monitor their children for potential symptoms of HFMD, which can include fever, mouth sores, and rashes. If symptoms appear, parents are encouraged to contact the school’s administration for guidance.
HFMD is a prevalent childhood illness caused by several viruses, including Coxsackievirus. While it is generally mild, it can result in more serious complications in certain cases. A concerned grandparent has raised worries about the illness potentially spreading within her family, particularly to her pregnant daughter, highlighting the concerns many parents and guardians have regarding the outbreak.
Interestingly, some parents at the school have reported not witnessing any cases of illness among students and state they only became aware of the situation through communications from the school. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that HFMD typically resolves on its own within seven to ten days, with supportive care as the suggested treatment method. Recommendations for managing HFMD include ensuring adequate rest and hydration, as well as the use of over-the-counter medications to alleviate pain and reduce fever.
Children diagnosed with HFMD should remain at home until they no longer have a fever and their blisters have healed fully. MSCS has committed to monitoring the situation and will provide ongoing updates as they become available. For more detailed information regarding symptoms, prevention, and resources, parents can visit the health section of the MSCS website.
Symptoms of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- Fever
- Mouth sores
- Skin rash
Precautions and Recommendations
- Disinfect classrooms frequently
- Monitor children for symptoms
- Stay home if infected until symptom-free
Expected Duration of Illness
HFMD typically clears up on its own within seven to ten days.
Health Management for HFMD
- Encourage rest and hydration
- Use over-the-counter medications for symptomatic relief
Key Actions for Parents
- Contact school administration if your child develops symptoms
- Stay informed by checking the MSCS health section on their website
Background on Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
Hand, foot and mouth disease is frequently seen in children under five years old but can affect individuals of all ages. It is important for parents and guardians to understand that while HFMD is usually not serious, preventative measures can help limit its spread within schools and communities.
FAQ Section
What is Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease?
HFMD is a common viral infection that most often affects young children, causing sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet.
What are the common symptoms?
Common symptoms include fever, painful sores in the mouth, and a rash on the hands and feet.
How is HFMD treated?
There is no specific treatment for HFMD. Supportive care, including rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain medications, is recommended.
When can my child return to school?
Children should stay home until their fever is gone and any blisters have healed.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Infection | Common viral illness primarily affecting children. |
| Symptoms | Includes fever, mouth sores, and rash. |
| Duration | Typically resolves in 7-10 days. |
| Treatment | Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relief. |
| Preventive Measures | Monitoring symptoms and maintaining hygiene. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Local Memphis: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Confirmed at Sherwood Elementary
- Wikipedia: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- Action News 5: Several Cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Confirmed
- Google Search: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- Fox 13 Memphis: MSCS Confirms Several Cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- WREG: Outbreak of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease at Sherwood Elementary
- Google Scholar: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- Local Memphis Video: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Confirmed
- Google News: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
