Memphis, TN, September 9, 2025
News Summary
The Shelby County Department of Health is investigating several cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease among students at Sherwood Elementary School. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, and mouth sores. The disease is highly contagious and typically affects children under five, but can also impact older children and adults. As a precaution, the school is implementing measures to prevent further spread, and parents are advised to monitor their children for symptoms and seek medical advice as necessary.
Memphis, TN – The Shelby County Department of Health (SCDH) is currently investigating multiple cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) among students at Sherwood Elementary School, a part of the Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) district. The initial announcement about the cases was made on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.
HFMD is a contagious viral infection most commonly diagnosed in children aged five and younger. However, older children and adults can also contract the illness if exposed. Symptoms typically arise three to seven days after exposure to the virus and include:
- Sudden onset of fever
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Flat or raised red spots or blisters in the mouth, fingers, palms of hands, bottoms of feet, and occasionally the buttocks
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
The virus is highly contagious, spreading through direct contact with:
- Saliva
- Nose and throat discharges of an infected person
- Fluid from blisters, rashes, or feces of an infected person
Individuals infected with HFMD are most contagious during the first week of illness. While there is currently no specific treatment for the disease, severe cases are rare, and the majority of affected individuals tend to recover without the need for hospitalization.
In response to these cases, MSCS is collaborating closely with the SCDH to implement extra precautions aimed at preventing the spread of HFMD within the school community. Efforts include:
- Excluding symptomatic children from attending school
- Disinfecting classrooms and common areas using approved methods and products
Parents are encouraged to be vigilant in monitoring their children for symptoms of HFMD. If symptoms are observed, parents are advised to keep their children at home and consult with a healthcare provider as necessary to ensure proper care and management.
This outbreak of HFMD at Sherwood Elementary highlights the importance of maintaining hygiene and awareness in schools, particularly during the viral season. The emphasis on preventing the disease’s spread is crucial for the well-being of students and the broader community.
Background on Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is an infection caused by viruses from the Enterovirus family. It is typically characterized by painful sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet. While most children recover without complications in about a week, some may experience severe discomfort due to the sores in their mouths, making eating and drinking painful. As a preventative measure, public health officials recommend maintaining good hygiene practices such as regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, particularly in school or daycare settings.
What to Do if Your Child Shows Symptoms
If parents notice symptoms of HFMD in their children, they should:
- Keep their child at home to prevent further transmission.
- Consult a healthcare provider for guidance.
- Monitor the child for any worsening symptoms.
Conclusion
As the investigation continues, health authorities emphasize the need for community cooperation in managing the spread of HFMD. Awareness and swift action can help protect children and ensure a healthier school environment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
What are the main symptoms of HFMD?
Symptoms include sudden fever, sore throat, runny nose, mouth sores, rashes, and loss of appetite.
How is HFMD spread?
HFMD spreads through direct contact with saliva, discharge from the nose and throat, and fluid from blisters or feces of an infected person.
What should I do if my child shows symptoms?
Keep your child home, monitor their symptoms, and consult a healthcare provider for more guidance.
Is HFMD serious?
Most cases are mild and treatable at home, but severe complications are rare.
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Additional Resources
- Fox13 Memphis: Health Department Investigating HFMD Outbreak
- Wikipedia: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
- Action News 5: Several Cases of HFMD Confirmed
- Google Search: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
- WREG: Health Department Investigates Outbreak at Sherwood Elementary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
- Hoodline: HFMD Cases Identified in Memphis
- Google News: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
- Local Memphis: Shelby County Health and HFMD
- Google Scholar: 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.
