Memphis, September 9, 2025
News Summary
The Shelby County Health Department is investigating an outbreak of hand, foot, and mouth disease at Sherwood Elementary School in Memphis. This viral infection primarily affects young children and is highly contagious. Parents are urged to monitor their children for symptoms and practice good hygiene to prevent further spread. The health department is collaborating with the school to implement disinfecting protocols and guidelines to protect students.
Memphis
The Shelby County Department of Health (SCDH) is currently investigating a series of cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease among students at Sherwood Elementary School in the Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) system. The initial reports of this outbreak were made on September 2, 2025.
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a viral illness that is most commonly found in children aged five and under but can also affect older children and adults who come into contact with the virus. Symptoms typically emerge within three to seven days following exposure and can include a sudden onset of fever, sore throat, runny nose, and various cutaneous manifestations such as flat or raised red spots or blisters in the mouth and on different body parts including the palms, soles, and sometimes the buttocks.
The virus is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with the saliva and secretions from the nose and throat of an infected individual. It can also be transmitted through contact with fluid from blisters, rashes, or feces of an infected person. The most contagious period lasts through the first week of the illness.
Health Department Response
In response to the outbreak, MSCS is working closely with the Shelby County Health Department to implement effective management strategies. Some immediate actions being taken include providing guidelines for disinfecting classrooms and common areas to prevent further spread of the illness. The health department has stressed the necessity of keeping symptomatic children at home to mitigate risks.
Parental Guidance
Parents are being urged to remain vigilant. They should closely monitor their children for any symptoms of the disease, such as loss of appetite or nausea. If symptoms are present, parents are advised to not send their children to school until they have recovered completely. Additionally, parents should remind their children about the importance of hygiene practices, such as frequent hand washing, to help prevent infection.
Background Information
This outbreak at Sherwood Elementary is not an isolated incident; hand, foot, and mouth disease occurs worldwide and is particularly common among children in daycare and school settings. Historically, outbreaks tend to be more prevalent during warmer months, but cases can occur at any time of the year. It is essential for communities to stay informed and adhere to health guidelines during such outbreaks to lower transmission rates.
Symptoms Overview
Recognizing the signs of hand, foot, and mouth disease is crucial in managing an outbreak. Here is a list of common symptoms to look out for:
- Sudden onset of fever
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Flat or raised red spots or blisters in the mouth and on the skin
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
Conclusion
As the situation unfolds, continuous updates will likely be issued by the SCDH and MSCS. For now, parents, educators, and health officials must work together to ensure the health and safety of all students in the affected areas.
FAQ
What is hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a viral infection characterized by fever, sore throat, and blisters on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth. It primarily affects young children but can also appear in older individuals.
How does the disease spread?
The disease spreads through saliva, throat secretions, blister fluid, and feces of an infected person, especially during the first week of the illness.
What should parents do if their child shows symptoms?
Parents should keep their child home from school, monitor symptoms, and consult a healthcare provider if necessary. Maintaining good hygiene and encouraging hand washing can help prevent further spread.
Can adults get hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Yes, while it primarily affects young children, adults can contract the virus if exposed.
What are the treatment options for hand, foot, and mouth disease?
There is no specific treatment for the disease. Most cases are mild and can be managed with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to relieve fever and discomfort.
Key Features of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Affected Age Group | Primarily children aged 5 and younger |
| Common Symptoms | Fever, sore throat, blisters |
| Transmission | Direct contact with fluids, respiratory secretions |
| Contagious Period | Most contagious in the first week |
| Treatment | No specific treatment; management of symptoms |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Investigation Underway for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease at Sherwood Elementary
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Confirmed at Sherwood Elementary
Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Memphis: Shelby County Health Department Investigating Outbreak
- Wikipedia: Hand, foot and mouth disease
- Action News 5: Several Cases Confirmed at Elementary School
- Google Search: Hand foot and mouth disease
- WREG: Health Department Investigates Outbreak
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hand foot and mouth disease
- Hoodline: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Cases Identified
- Google News: Hand foot and mouth disease outbreak Memphis
- Fox 13 Memphis: MSCS Confirms Cases at Memphis Elementary School
- Google Scholar: Hand foot and mouth disease
- Action News 5: Video on Hand Foot and Mouth Disease
- Local Memphis: Shelby County Health Dept on Disease
- WREG: Outbreak of Hand Foot Mouth Disease at Sherwood Elementary
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.
