Hand-foot-&-mouth Disease

Overview

Hand-foot-and-mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection that primarily affects infants and young children. It is characterized by the development of small, painful sores or blisters on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth. HFMD is usually caused by the coxsackievirus or the enterovirus and is highly contagious.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of Hand-foot-and-mouth Disease may include:

• Fever: Mild to high fever, usually lasting for a few days.
• Sore throat: Pain or discomfort in the throat, making swallowing difficult.
• Mouth sores: Painful sores or blisters inside the mouth, including the tongue, gums, and cheeks.
• Rash: Red spots, bumps, or blisters on the hands, feet, and sometimes on the buttocks.
• Loss of appetite: Decreased desire to eat due to discomfort in the mouth.
• Irritability: Increased fussiness or irritability, especially in infants and young children.

Causes

Hand-foot-and-mouth Disease is primarily caused by the coxsackievirus or the enterovirus. These viruses are highly contagious and can spread from person to person through close contact, such as coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces. The infection is most common in crowded places, such as daycare centers or schools.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for Hand-foot-and-mouth Disease, as it is a viral infection that usually resolves on its own within 7 to 10 days. However, the following measures can help alleviate symptoms and promote comfort:

• Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce fever and alleviate discomfort.
• Fluid intake: Encourage adequate fluid intake, including water, milk, popsicles, or soothing liquids, to prevent dehydration.
• Soft diet: Offer soft, cool, and easy-to-eat foods that are gentle on the mouth sores, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, or smoothies.
• Good hygiene practices: Maintain good hygiene by frequently washing hands, disinfecting surfaces, and avoiding close contact with others to prevent the spread of the infection.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, particularly for infants, young children, or individuals with severe symptoms, to ensure appropriate management and to monitor for any complications.

Self-care Tips

To prevent the spread of Hand-foot-and-mouth Disease and promote a speedy recovery, consider the following self-care practices:

• Frequent handwashing: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, or coming into contact with saliva or nasal secretions.
• Cover mouth and nose: Encourage proper coughing and sneezing etiquette by covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or the elbow to prevent the spread of droplets.
• Isolate from others: Keep infected individuals, especially children, away from school, daycare, or other crowded places until they are no longer contagious.
• Disinfect surfaces: Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces, toys, and objects to reduce the risk of transmission.

Remember, Hand-foot-and-mouth Disease is a common viral infection that usually resolves on its own. However, seeking medical advice and following good hygiene practices can help manage symptoms, prevent complications, and prevent the spread of the infection.