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Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease in India

04 October 2012

An outbreak of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) has been reported in the state of West Bengal. The state capital, Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is particularly affected with thousands of children reported to be suffering from the infection, which in many cases is extremely severe.

Advice for Travellers

HFMD is a common viral illness which spreads rapidly among children in particular; outbreaks most often occur in children's nurseries and daycare centres. Transmission is via direct contact with nose and throat secretions and faeces if an infected individual and by aerosol droplet spread. Contact with infected children should be limited and crowded situations avoided; personal hygiene and handwashing is paramount in reducing transmission.