The Anne Arundel County Public School district is reporting a significant rise in hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases, mirroring a statewide surge in infections among children, according to Superintendent Mark T. Bedell.

In a letter sent to families Tuesday, Bedell said most cases have been identified at the elementary school level, but families across the district should remain alert to symptoms and prevention measures.

HFMD is a viral illness that primarily affects young children, causing painful mouth sores and a red rash that may turn into blisters on the hands and feet. The illness can also cause fever, sore throat and poor appetite before the rash appears. While the virus typically resolves within 7 to 10 days, rare complications such as viral meningitis or encephalitis can o

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