The Berrien County Health Department says several cases of hand, foot and mouth disease have been reported at Stewart Elementary School in Stevensville.

The common virus can cause fever, mouth sores and a rash on the hands and feet. It spreads through respiratory secretions, fluid from blisters and contaminated surfaces.

Health officials say students diagnosed with the illness should stay home until they’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication, have had no new lesions for at least 24 hours, and can participate in class without uncontrolled drooling. Blisters should be dried, scabbed over or securely covered.

Officials recommend frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces. Questions can be directed to the Berrien County Health Department or a health care provider.