Memphis, September 9, 2025
News Summary
The Shelby County Department of Health is investigating several reported cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease at Sherwood Elementary School in Memphis. The outbreak, confirmed by Memphis-Shelby County Schools, has prompted guidelines for parents to monitor symptoms in their children and for schools to enhance cleaning protocols. The highly contagious disease primarily affects children aged five and younger, with symptoms including fever, sore throat, and rashes. Parents are urged to keep sick children at home to prevent further transmission.
Memphis
The Shelby County Department of Health (SCDH) is probing several reported cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) at Sherwood Elementary School in Memphis. This situation was made public on Tuesday, September 2, by Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS), which is working closely with SCDH to address the outbreak.
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is most prevalent among children aged five years and younger, yet it can also affect older children and adults. Symptoms typically manifest within three to seven days post-exposure and include a sudden onset of fever, sore throat, runny nose, and distinctive red spots or blisters in the mouth and on the hands or feet. Loss of appetite and symptoms like nausea and vomiting may also occur.
The highly contagious virus spreads easily through direct contact with an infected person’s saliva, nose and throat discharges, fluid from blisters or rashes, and feces. Individuals infected with HFMD are at their most contagious during the first week of illness. Given the nature of the virus, keeping sick children at home is crucial to preventing further transmission.
To help combat the outbreak, MSCS has advised parents to proactively monitor their children for any symptoms associated with HFMD. In response to the rising concern, guidelines have been issued to MSCS regarding the disinfection of classrooms and the exclusion of symptomatic children from school activities. It is recommended that parents seek advice from healthcare providers if their children exhibit any concerning symptoms.
While severe cases of HFMD are rare, there is currently no specific treatment available for the disease, and the best course of action remains the exclusion of sick children from educational environments to limit the virus’s spread.
Key Symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
- Sudden onset of fever
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Flat or raised red spots or blisters in the mouth
- Red spots or blisters on fingers and palms, bottoms of feet, and buttocks (occasionally)
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
Prevention Measures
The SCDH emphasizes the critical role exclusion plays in curbing the outbreak. Parents are urged to keep their children at home if they show any signs of illness. The health department is collaborating with MSCS to implement thorough cleaning protocols within school facilities.
Conclusion
As the investigation unfolds, parents and community members are encouraged to stay informed about the situation and follow any guidelines issued by health authorities and the school district. Continued vigilance is essential in managing the outbreak of hand, foot, and mouth disease at Sherwood Elementary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a viral infection that usually affects young children but can also occur in older kids and adults. It is characterized by fever, sores in the mouth, and a rash on the hands, feet, and buttocks.
How is HFMD transmitted?
The virus spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s saliva, throat secretions, blister fluid, and feces.
What are the symptoms of HFMD?
Symptoms include fever, sore throat, runny nose, and red spots or blisters in the mouth and on the skin, particularly on the hands and feet.
Is there a treatment for HFMD?
There is no specific treatment for HFMD. Supportive care such as pain relief and hydration is recommended for managing symptoms.
How can parents prevent the spread of HFMD?
Parents are advised to keep symptomatic children at home and consult healthcare providers. Regular handwashing and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces can help prevent the virus’s spread.
Key Features of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Group Most Affected | Children aged 5 and under |
| Common Symptoms | Fever, sore throat, mouth sores, rashes |
| Transmission | Contact with saliva and blister fluid |
| Contagion Period | First week of illness |
| Treatment | No specific treatment; supportive care recommended |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Concerns Mount Over Safety in Memphis-Shelby County Schools
Memphis Schools Achieve Academic Growth Amid Challenges
Outbreak of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in Memphis School
Investigation Underway for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease at Sherwood Elementary
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Confirmed at Sherwood Elementary
Additional Resources
- Fox13 Memphis
- Wikipedia: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
- Action News 5
- Google Search: Hand, foot, and mouth disease
- WREG
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
- Local Memphis
- Google News: Hand foot and mouth disease
- Hoodline
- Action News 5 Video
- WREG Outbreak Report
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.
