News Desk :
The outbreak of a viral infection that manifests symptoms such as blister-like rashes on the hands, feet and mouth of children, particularly those between the ages of three and seven, has become a cause for concern among many parents in Dhaka. The condition, known as hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), has also put schools across the capital on alert.
Although the disease is highly-contagious, doctors say there is nothing to fear. The virus that triggers HFMD can be subdued within a matter of days, they say.
Nevertheless, experts stressed the need for caution and preventative measures without panicking. Parents should provide care to afflicted children at home, instead of sending them to school, advised Dr Mohammod Shahidullah, a paediatrician, and a few other physicians.
For the past few weeks, the number of HMFD cases at various schools in Dhaka has been increasing. One school has been closed for two days, owing to parents’ concerns about the fast-spreading disease. Additional precautions have been taken in other schools as well.
A spike in patients with HMFD has also been reported at various medical facilities, including children’s hospitals and the private chambers of doctors, reports bdnews24.com.
However, as the condition is not considered ‘serious’ or ‘life-threatening’, patients generally don’t require hospitalisation. As a result, ABM Khurshid Alam, the director general of health services, believes there is no need to panic.
Health authorities noticed the spread of HFMD among schoolchildren a few weeks ago, he said. The Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research has been directed to investigate the outbreak. The health directorate is also working with experts to stem the spread of the disease.
