What is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common contagious illness that primarily affects children under the age of 5, especially during the rainy season. It is caused by various strains of viruses belonging to the "Enterovirus" group. While most cases are mild, infection with the "Enterovirus 71" or "EV71" strain can lead to severe complications, including encephalitis, which can be fatal.

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How does Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease spread?

HFMD can spread through both direct and indirect contact. Direct transmission occurs through contact with the nasal mucus, saliva, or feces of an infected person. Indirect transmission can happen through contact with contaminated toys, utensils, water, or food. The disease often spreads in kindergartens and childcare centers because the virus has an incubation period of about one week, allowing infected individuals to transmit the virus before symptoms appear.

What are the symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

The primary symptoms include fever, sore mouth, excessive drooling, and a reduced appetite due to mouth sores. A rash characterized by red spots or fluid-filled blisters may appear on the hands, feet, buttocks, genitals, and occasionally on the torso. Symptoms generally improve within a week, but dehydration can occur if the child eats or drinks less. In cases of EV71 infection, more serious symptoms such as encephalitis, difficulty breathing, and seizures can develop, which can be life-threatening.

Treatment and Prevention

There is no specific treatment for HFMD, so care focuses on alleviating symptoms with fever reducers, pain relievers, topical anesthetics, and oral rehydration solutions. A vaccine is available that provides up to 97% protection against the EV71 strain but does not cover other strains. Preventative measures include isolating infected individuals, handwashing, cleaning contaminated objects, ensuring the cleanliness of food and water, and keeping sick children out of school until fully recovered.

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