The Westmoreland Public Health Department is urging parents and school administrators to remain vigilant, following an increase in cases of hand, foot and mouth disease among children in several educational institutions across the parish.

Medical Officer of Health for Westmoreland, Dr Marcia Graham, said the highly contagious viral illness has primarily been affecting students in basic, infant and early childhood institutions, with some primary schools reporting cases.

Speaking during the monthly meeting of the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation on Thursday, July 9, Graham said the health department has intensified its public health response to limit the spread of the disease.