Tulum Kindergarten HFMD Outbreak Now Controlled

Cancún, Quintana Roo — The Quintana Roo Ministry of Health has reported that the situation at a kindergarten in Tulum, which was temporarily closed after an outbreak of the virus commonly known as hand, foot, and mouth disease was detected in 32 children, is now under control. The school closure was implemented as a preventive measure to stop the spread of the virus.

Immediate cleaning and epidemiological surveillance protocols were activated in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.

Flavio Carlos Rosado, the Secretary of Health, explained that the virus, commonly referred to as "hand, foot, and mouth disease," primarily affects children between 3 and 5 years old. Although it is contagious, the official stated that it does not represent a serious risk to the health of the children. He emphasized that the recovery of those affected generally does not exceed 10 days.

"In the case of Tulum, the Ministry of Education reported the situation to us immediately. The pre-established epidemiological surveillance protocols were activated, and the decision was made to remove the children to prevent further infections and carry out the corresponding cleaning processes at the institution," he detailed.

The Secretary of Health added that work is being coordinated with IMSS-Bienestar to monitor the health of the children. Following a new medical evaluation, and once it is confirmed that there is no longer any risk, the children will be able to return to their school activities.

"A medical assessment will be carried out to determine the appropriate time for a return to classes, always ensuring that the virus does not continue to spread," he stated.

He also underscored that constant communication has been maintained with the parents of the affected children to inform them of the measures adopted and to guarantee the safety of the children at all times.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral infection, caused by the Coxsackie virus and other enteroviruses, which manifests with fever, sore throat, mouth sores, skin rashes, and blisters on the hands, feet, and often in the diaper area.