30 Jul 2017 | 11:00 AM UTC
Japan: Over 29,000 cases of foot-and-mouth disease since June
Over 29,000 cases of foot-and-mouth disease since June; experts warn of potential epidemic July 19
Event
On Wednesday, July 19, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) stated that there have been over 29,000 cases of foot-and-mouth disease since June. Around 18,000 cases were reported from July 3 to July 9, with 11,000 cases reported the previous week. Experts warned that infection levels could surpass those of 2011 during the worst outbreak of the disease in a decade. The NIID also warned of the outbreak potentially turning into an epidemic.
Context
Foot-and-mouth disease, also called hand-foot-and-mouth disease, is a viral infection that mostly affects children. Symptoms include blister-like rashes on the hands, feet, and mouth, and usually occur three to six days after contact with the virus. The virus spreads through coughing and sneezing, as well as infected stool.
Advice
Individuals are advised to wash hands well with soap to help prevent contracting the disease and seek immediate medical attention if any symptoms occur.
