Dozens of pupils hit by HFMD

SEMARANG: At least 53 kindergarten and elementary school students in Surakarta, Sukohardjo, Karanganyar and Boyolali, all in Central Java, are reportedly suffering from hand, foot and mouth disease (HMFD), according to a report on Tuesday.

According to the head of the Central Java office of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Soejono, there are 39 pupils in Surakarta suffering from the illness, 12 in Sukohardjo and two in both Karanganyar and Boyolali.

"Although there have been no fatalities recorded (in Central Java), we have to notify the people and all related officials," Soejono said as quoted by Antara.

The symptoms of the disease are similar to those of influenza, being marked by a fever, a sore throat and a runny nose. (edt)