The Ministry of Health and Social Services has confirmed 19 cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) among children in the Rehoboth Health District in the Hardap Region.

All affected children are reportedly in stable condition and recovering at home, as the ministry urges the public to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation.

The Ministry of Health and Social Services Executive Director, Penda Ithindi, said in a media release issued on Friday that appropriate public health measures have been put in place to manage the cases.

The HFMD cases were reported at J W Mouton Primary School located on Farm Karanas.

The ministry noted that the learners are recovering at home, while health authorities continue to monitor the situation.

HFMD is a contagious viral infection that mainly affects young children. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, painful mouth sores, and a rash or blisters on the hands and feet.

The ministry has also clarified that HFMD in humans is different from Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) in animals.

The two illnesses are caused by unrelated viruses and cannot be transmitted between humans and animals.

Parents are advised to keep children showing symptoms at home, seek medical attention, and practise good hygiene, including regular handwashing and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.

The ministry has cautioned schools against premature closures, saying such decisions should only be made on the advice of health authorities following a localised risk assessment.

It has further urged the public to rely on official communication and avoid sharing unverified information on social media.