Possibly NOT aphthous stomatitis

My landlady has 3 grandchildren, ages 8, 6, 15months, all of whom have contracted oral "canker sores" accompanied by high fevers of 102 - 104.  The baby was first followed up by age.  The oldest child is being hit the hardest.  

All were exposed to 2 different bodies of water...1 is our local lake, which is enclosed, with no fresh supply coming in, and surrounded by cattle and horses.  The other lake is a popular tourist spot.  This is the only thing they have in common, other than communal eating.

They have been treated with the typical meds for aphthous stomatitis, and the two youngest seem to be in less pain, but the sores and fevers persist.

Cultures were taken for strep, and results are not back yet.

Duration now has been about 2 weeks,  mom and gramma are pooped. Any suggestions as to what else it might be, or palliative treatments?

We live in a rural area, and sophisticated diagnostics are not readily available.

Thank You for any help.  

[Nurseynurse714]

How long have the sores and fevers been present? Has anyone ever considered herpes simplex (cold sores)? Given the young ages of the children and knowing that children of this age tend to share cups, utensils, toys, etc, could be that one had the virus and spread to the others. Look up herpetic gingivostomatitis on the web for more info. Typically it's accompanied by a fever as well. Keep us posted. Good luck.