San Antonio, Texas, September 12, 2025
News Summary
In San Antonio, Texas, a surge in hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) cases in schools has led a concerned mother to raise awareness on TikTok. Dominique West, with three children attending NEISD schools, reported alarming cases of HFMD in her daughter’s school. NEISD allows students with visible symptoms to return if they are fever-free, which has raised questions among parents about health policies. Healthcare experts emphasize hygiene as a critical preventive measure amid the outbreak.
San Antonio, Texas – A rising number of cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in local schools has prompted a mother to take to TikTok to spread awareness among parents. Dominique West’s video has garnered over 186,000 views since it was posted last week, highlighting her alarm over the situation at her children’s school in the North East Independent School District (NEISD).
West, who has five children, reported that three of them attend schools within NEISD. In her TikTok post, she expressed her concerns after noticing that her daughter had “full-blown” sores characteristic of HFMD. This prompted her to investigate the district’s policy regarding students with visible symptoms of the disease. According to NEISD, students diagnosed with HFMD are allowed to return to school as long as they do not have a fever, even if they have active blisters.
HFMD is a viral infection known for causing red sores or bumps, commonly on the hands, feet, and in the mouth. While it can be accompanied by fever, it doesn’t always present with such symptoms. The virus is particularly contagious, spreading through contact with respiratory droplets and stool. It is important for parents to remain vigilant, as HFMD can pose risks to pregnant or immunocompromised individuals.
NEISD clarified that they adhere to state health guidelines for contagious illnesses, which indicate that students with HFMD can attend school if they are fever-free, even if blisters are evident. The district has reiterated its commitment to sharing health tips with families to help prevent the spread of HFMD and other illnesses. Health newsletters are regularly sent to parents to promote hygiene practices such as washing hands before meals and after touching the face, which are key in mitigating the virus’s prevalence.
According to Dr. Jason Bowling, an infectious disease specialist, determining when sick children should remain home presents challenges for schools. With HFMD typically lasting between five to seven days and no specific medication available for treatment, the emphasis remains on prevention through hygiene.
The recent community alert from West reflects a growing concern among parents who are asking for clearer state and school policies regarding contagious illnesses. Many parents, including West, hope for enhanced communication from schools about disease outbreaks to better protect their children.
Overview of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
- Symptoms: Red sores or bumps, fever (not always present)
- Duration: Typically lasts 5-7 days
- Contagion: Spreads through respiratory droplets and stool
- Prevention: Regular handwashing and hygiene practices
NEISD’s Health Guidelines
- Students with HFMD can return if fever-free, blisters not an exclusion
- Follows Texas Department of State Health Services guidelines
- Regular health newsletters distributed to families
Protecting Vulnerable Populations
Families should be cautious, particularly regarding pregnant or immunocompromised members, as HFMD can hold increased risks for these individuals.
Conclusion
The rise in HFMD cases in NEISD schools has raised awareness among parents, highlighting the importance of understanding school policies and health measures to prevent outbreaks.
FAQ
What is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
HFMD is a viral infection characterized by sores or bumps on the hands, feet, and in the mouth, and is typically accompanied by fever.
How is HFMD transmitted?
The disease spreads primarily through respiratory droplets and stool from infected individuals, making it highly contagious.
What is the recovery time for HFMD?
Most cases typically last between five to seven days, with no specific medications available for treatment.
What precautions can families take to prevent HFMD?
Frequent handwashing, especially before eating and after touching one’s face, is essential in reducing the spread of HFMD.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Symptoms | Red sores or bumps, may include fever |
| Contagion method | Through respiratory droplets and stool |
| Recovery time | 5 to 7 days |
| Prevention tips | Practicing good hygiene, regular handwashing |
| School policy | Students with HFMD can return if fever-free |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- KSAT: San Antonio Mom Concerned with NEISD’s Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Policy
- Wikipedia: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- Express News: San Antonio Mom’s Viral TikTok on Hand, Foot, and Mouth
- Google Search: Hand Foot Mouth Disease
- Fox San Antonio: Metro Health Advises Schools on HFMD
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
- 10TV: HFMD Cases in Delaware County
- Google News: Hand Foot Mouth Disease Outbreak
- Hoodline: HFMD Cases Identified in Memphis Schools
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
