DepEd Caraga Region Implements Measures to Prevent Spread of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in Schools
By LYNDEN G. MERNILO
Master Teacher I
Butuan Central Elementary School
The Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga Region aims to secure all personnel and learners from the contagious Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD).
Section 2 of Republic Act 11332, also known as the Law on Reporting of Communicable Diseases, aims to protect the people from public health threats through the efficient and effective disease surveillance of notifiable diseases, including emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, diseases for elimination and eradication, epidemics, and health events. Hence, with the spread of HFMD, the DepEd Caraga issued Regional Memorandum Number 0091, Series of 2023, which provides guidelines on the prevention and control of HFMD in schools.
HFMD is a viral infection that is common among young children, and it can spread quickly in crowded settings such as schools. It is caused by several types of enteroviruses and is highly contagious. The virus spreads through contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids, such as saliva or stools, or by touching contaminated surfaces. The symptoms of HFMD typically include fever, sore throat, and painful sores or blisters on the tongue, gums, inside of the cheeks, and roof of the mouth. A rash may also appear on the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet, and sometimes on the buttocks. In rare cases, complications can occur, such as viral meningitis or encephalitis.
According to Annex A of the memorandum, the preventive measures that schools should implement include frequent handwashing with soap and water, regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and equipment, isolation of infected individuals, health education, and avoidance of sharing personal items.Moreover, the memorandum emphasized the importance of hand hygiene in preventing the spread of HFMD. Students, teachers, and staff are advised to wash their hands frequently, especially after using the toilet, before eating, and after touching potentially contaminated objects or surfaces. The schools are also instructed to ensure that all surfaces, objects, and equipment are regularly cleaned and disinfected.
Furthermore, infected individuals should be immediately isolated and sent home. Symptoms of HFMD include fever, sore throat, mouth sores, and a rash on the hands, feet, and buttocks. DepEd Caraga Region also encourages schools to provide health education to students, teachers, and staff about the signs and symptoms of HFMD as well as the preventive measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of transmission.
The implementation of these preventive measures is crucial to ensuring a healthy and safe learning environment for students and staff. Consequently, DepEd Caraga Region urges all schools to strictly follow the guidelines provided in the said regional memorandum to ensure the prevention of the spread of HFMD and protect the well-being of everyone in the school community. ###
