09/08/2026
Good morning Kugluktukmiut,
The Kugluktuk Health Centre is seeing an increase in cases of **Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD)** in the community.
HFMD is a **contagious viral illness** that commonly affects young children, although older children and adults can also become infected.
**Common symptoms include:**
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Painful sores or blisters in or around the mouth
• Rash or small blisters, commonly on the hands, feet and sometimes the buttocks
• Decreased appetite
• Children may be more tired or irritable than usual
**HELP PREVENT THE SPREAD**
Please encourage everyone in your household to:
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the toilet or changing diapers.
• Avoid sharing cups, utensils, food, towels and other personal items.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and toys.
• Avoid close contact such as kissing or sharing drinks with someone who is sick.
• Keep children home if they are feeling unwell or have a fever.
PLEASE NOTE:A rash can remain after a child is otherwise feeling better. The presence of a rash alone does not always mean that a child needs to stay home. Please follow the school/daycare illness policy and contact the Health Centre if you are unsure or concerned about your child’s symptoms.
Most people recover on their own within 7–10 days. There is no specific antibiotic treatment because HFMD is caused by a virus.
Please seek medical attention if your child is unable to drink enough fluids, shows signs of dehydration, is unusually sleepy or difficult to wake, has severe or worsening symptoms, or if you have other concerns.
Thank you for helping us reduce the spread of illness and keep our community healthy.
Kugluktuk Health Centre
