WESTFORD, MA (WHDH) — A few Westford students have been diagnosed with hand, foot and mouth disease, according to school officials.
A notice to parents from the school nurse was sent out Wednesday.
The disease is caused by a group of viruses called enteroviruses.
It usually begins with a mild fever, poor appetite, malaise and sore throat. One or two days after the fever sores develop in the mouth, usually on the tongue, gums and inside of the cheeks.
A skin rash, usually located on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet, develop over one to two days.
The disease is spread by person-to-person contact or direct contact with stool, nose and throat discharges or saliva.
Students can prevent the spread of the disease by washing hands with soap and water, disinfecting dirty surfaces and avoid close contact with infected people.
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