NEWPORT — As of Thursday night, more than half of the North Country Union High School football team was displaying symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease. Six players have confirmed cases, while around 20 players could also be infected.
The outbreak has led to Friday’s game against Burr and Burton Academy to be postponed, school officials said.
Yesterday, several football players were sent to the nurse’s office after displaying symptoms of the illness. So far, other sports programs at the school have not been affected, and all other North Country games are still scheduled.
Hand, foot and mouth disease usually starts with a fever, poor appetite, a vague feeling of being unwell, and sore throat. One or two days after fever starts, painful sores usually develop in the mouth.
A skin rash develops over one to two days. The rash has flat or raised red spots, sometimes with blisters. The rash is usually on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It may also appear on the knees, elbows, buttocks or genital area.
There is no specific treatment for the illness. Treatment mostly consists of relieving symptoms. Usually within five to seven days, the illness has passed.
