Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Spreads Rapidly Across Multiple States

An outbreak of hand, foot, and mouth disease has affected 31 schools and 3 child care centers in Shelby County, Tennessee, with at least 178 cases. The disease, common in children under 5, is highly contagious but usually mild, spreading through droplets, surfaces, and contact with blisters or feces. Health officials are monitoring the situation, advising good hygiene and keeping sick children home, though children can often continue attending school if symptoms are mild and they are fever-free.