THE Public Health Department yesterday ordered the Stella Maris Preparatory School in St Andrew to close today and carry out a comprehensive sanitisation of the premises.

The order followed the diagnosis of at least two students with hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD).

Stella Maris yesterday cancelled all after-school activities in preparation for today’s sanitisation.

“A couple children came down with the problem and in order to do what is right, you have to disinfect and clean down the place. We have asked them to do that,” said Dr Herbert Elliott, medical officer of health.

HFMD is a contagious viral illness found among infants and children, which results in the formation of small bumps or rash on the hands, feet and in the mouth. They are usually accompanied by fevers and respiratory symptoms. The bumps usually itch, resulting in discomfort.

The virus can easily be passed from one child to another through personal contact or through contact with a virus-contaminated surface. An infected child can still pass on the virus even after symptoms disappear.