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We are facing a deadly outbreak of hand, mouth and foot disease, which is spreading rapidly and putting our children, especially those in schools and creches, at severe risk. This highly contagious disease affects young children whose immune systems are not fully developed, making them especially vulnerable to complications that could impact their health for years to come.

The disease spreads fast in places like schools and childcare facilities, where children are in close contact. Painful sores, fever, and blisters on the mouth and feet are just the beginning – if not properly managed, it can lead to serious dehydration and other health issues. We cannot afford to ignore this.

It has been reported that cases have risen to 117 in KZN. The IFP in the KZN Legislature believes that it is the duty of the KZN MEC for Health, Nomagugu Simelane, to ensure that immediate and aggressive action is taken to educate every community—especially in rural areas—on how to identify symptoms, prevent the disease from spreading, and what steps to take if a child is infected. The health of our children is at stake, and it’s essential that no one is left in the dark.

This is a public health crisis that demands urgent attention. We need mass mobilization to raise awareness, distribute clear information, and implement preventive measures: proper hygiene, handwashing, sanitization in schools and creches, and strict isolation of infected children.

The people of KZN, particularly in rural areas, must be well-informed and prepared. This is a time for action, not complacency. We call on MEC Simelane to ensure that all necessary resources are deployed immediately to protect our children. Every parent, teacher, and caregiver must be equipped with the knowledge to fight this outbreak before it spreads even further.

This is a critical moment. Together, we must protect the lives of our children and stop this outbreak in its tracks. The time to act is NOW.


Issued by IFP KZN Provincial Spokesperson for Health Ncamisile Nkwanyana