Cedarcrest High School cautions families about spreading virus

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease has been confirmed at Cedarcrest High School, reports school nurse Jackie Boak, in an e-mail sent to Cedarcrest families Oct. 30. The disease, caused by a form of enterovirus, is painful but not life-threatening. It is not related to hoof-and-mouth disease, although the names are similar. It can cause flu-like symptoms, and sores or blisters in and around the mouth, hands, feet and legs. Because the disease is caused by a virus, like a cold or flu, the treatment is basically rest and fluids.

November 5, 2014 3:24 pm

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease has been confirmed at Cedarcrest High School, reports school nurse Jackie Boak, in an e-mail sent to Cedarcrest families Oct. 30.

The disease, caused by a form of enterovirus, is painful but not life-threatening. It is not related to hoof-and-mouth disease, although the names are similar. It can cause flu-like symptoms, and sores or blisters in and around the mouth, hands, feet and legs. Because the disease is caused by a virus, like a cold or flu, the treatment is basically rest and fluids.

“Our school is taking all necessary precautions to help alleviate the further spread of the virus causing this illness,” Boak wrote.

More information is available at www.webmd.com/children/guide/hand-foot-and-mouth-disease-topic-overview, and at www.nj.gov/health/cd/documents/faq/ev_faq.pdf.