Hand foot mouth disease

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a contagious viral illness commonly affecting infants and young children, although it can also occur in adults. It is typically caused by several types of enteroviruses, most commonly the coxsackievirus A16 and enterovirus 71. Here are some key points about hand, foot, and mouth disease:

1. Symptoms: HFMD typically presents with a combination of symptoms, including:
   • Fever
   • Sore throat
   • Painful sores or blisters in the mouth (especially on the tongue, gums, and inside of the cheeks)
   • Skin rash or red spots on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and sometimes on the buttocks or genital area
   • Irritability or fussiness in infants and young children
2. Transmission: HFMD is highly contagious and spreads through close contact with an infected person’s saliva, nasal secretions, blister fluid, or feces. It can also spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can survive on surfaces and objects for several days, increasing the risk of transmission.
3. Incubation Period: The incubation period for HFMD is typically 3 to 7 days, during which time an infected person may not show symptoms but can still spread the virus to others.
4. Duration: HFMD symptoms usually last for about 7 to 10 days, although the duration can vary depending on the severity of the illness and individual factors.
5. Treatment: There is no specific treatment for HFMD, as it is caused by a viral infection. Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and manage discomfort, including:
   • Over-the-counter pain relievers (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen) to reduce fever and relieve pain
   • Mouthwash or oral anesthetics to soothe mouth sores
   • Fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if the child has difficulty eating or drinking due to mouth pain
6. Prevention: To reduce the risk of HFMD transmission, it is important to practice good hygiene, including:
   • Washing hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the toilet, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food
   • Avoiding close contact with individuals who have HFMD, including kissing, hugging, and sharing utensils or cups
   • Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as toys and doorknobs
7. Complications: While most cases of HFMD are mild and self-limiting, complications can occur, especially in rare cases involving enterovirus 71. Complications may include viral meningitis, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), or myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle).

It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you suspect that you or your child has hand, foot, and mouth disease, especially if symptoms are severe or if there are signs of complications.