The Coxsackievirus, which causes hand-foot-and-mouth disease, has caused a significant outbreak in the state of Oaxaca, with 753 cases to date, mostly in children under 10 years of age. Health authorities have warned about the rapid spread of the virus, especially among children between one and four years of age, who account for more than half of the infections (396 cases).
So far, no deaths associated with the outbreak have been reported. The Oaxaca Health Services (SSO) reported that, although it is a highly contagious disease, its course is usually benign and self-limiting, provided prompt care is received. Most patients experience fever, painful blisters in the mouth, and a rash on the hands and feet, typical symptoms of Coxsackievirus, which can also affect adults to a lesser extent.
Infections have been identified in 45 municipalities, with the highest prevalence in regions such as the Central Valleys (140 cases), the Isthmus of Tehuantepec (114), and Tuxtepec (70). The gender distribution is balanced: 384 cases in women and 369 in men.
Faced with the increase, authorities urged strengthening hygiene measures in homes and public spaces, such as frequent handwashing, cleaning surfaces, and isolating people with symptoms. They also urged avoiding close contact with vulnerable populations, especially infants and children under five, who are most affected by this viral disease.
Source: lineadirectaportal
