Hollywood is full of movies and TV shows that chart the spread of deadly infections or diseases, and while the far-fetched ideas of World War Z, 28 Days Later, and The Last of Us might seem fanciful, others like Steven Soderbergh's Contagion are far more based in science. You only have to look at how the world ground to a halt during the COVID-19 pandemic to see we're not as far away from these dystopian horror stories as we might think.
In 2025 alone, we've heard about mutant deer, zombie squirrels, and Frankenstein rabbits, while the chikungunya virus spread fears across China, and what about the discovery of 20 new bat viruses?
Now, health officials in the USA are speaking out about the 'very contagious' spread of hand, foot, and mouth disease across a major USA state.
In a recent press release, the Shelby County Health Department confirmed that 31 schools and three childcare centers in Tennessee have reported cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). With the first cases being reported back in August, the number has climbed to over 178 students and staff members as of October 20.
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As reiterated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HFMD is "usually not serious, but it is very contagious." Typically affecting children under the age of five, adults are less at risk but can also contract it.
Spread through droplets expelled by infected people when they talk, cough, or sneeze, HFMD can also be contracted by touching objects and surfaces that have been splashed with virus particles. Given that children aren't exactly known for being the cleanest when it comes to washing their hands or not sticking their fingers in places, schools and daycare centers can quickly become a hotbed.
It's also possible that HFMD can be spread by blister fluid and feces.
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The CDC says that most children will be affected by mild symptoms that typically clear up in up to 10 days. These include a sore throat, a fever, painful mouth sores, and blisters or rash on the hands and feet.
In terms of combating HFMD, the CDC advises regularly washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, especially after changing diapers. Those in charge of children should help them wash their hands and keep their blisters clean. Importantly, avoid touching faces with unwashed hands, and ensure they’re regularly disinfecting shared surfaces and objects like toys.
Shelby County health officials have vowed to work closely with schools and childcare providers to try and limit the spread of this outbreak.
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Dr. Bruce Randolph, Shelby County Health Department Director and Health Officer, explained: "While most cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease are mild, the virus spreads easily in group environments like schools and daycares.
"Parents should keep sick children home until they are fever-free, feeling well, and any mouth sores or blisters have improved.”
Still, as Shelby County includes the city of Memphis and a population of over 600,000, it's a situation that officials are keeping a close eye on.