A viral skin infection affecting young children has been reported in parts of Eswatini, prompting health authorities to issue a cautionary notice and activate response measures. The Ministry of Health confirmed a rise in cases, particularly among infants and children under the age of ten, with clusters emerging in the Hhohho and Manzini regions.
According to a press statement released on April 8, the ministry’s surveillance systems have picked up several mild cases in both health facilities and schools. While most children are recovering without complications, the exact nature of the infection remains undetermined.
Samples have been collected from some of the affected children and sent for laboratory testing to identify the virus and understand its characteristics. The ministry has not linked the infection to any known disease yet.
Children showing symptoms typically experience fever, sore throat, fatigue, loss of appetite, and red blisters on the inside of the mouth, tongue, palms, and soles of the feet.
Public health officials have urged calm while encouraging vigilance. The ministry has rolled out a set of early intervention strategies, including intensified surveillance in health centres and early learning institutions, information campaigns for caregivers, and infection control guidelines for affected schools.
Coordination efforts are also underway between school health programmes and regional health teams to prevent further spread. Parents, guardians, and educators have been advised to closely monitor children for symptoms, keep sick children at home, encourage regular handwashing, and disinfect shared surfaces and toys.
The Ministry of Health assured the public of its continued commitment to controlling the spread and protecting communities. Updates will follow as investigations progress.
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