Summary about Disease
Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection that primarily affects infants and children under 5 years old. It is characterized by sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet. While uncomfortable, HFMD is typically not serious and resolves on its own within a week to ten days.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of HFMD include:
Fever
Sore throat
Reduced appetite
Painful sores in the mouth (usually on the tongue, gums, and inside of the cheeks)
Skin rash with small, red blisters on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and sometimes the buttocks and/or genitalia.
Irritability
Causes
HFMD is most commonly caused by the coxsackievirus A16 virus. Other enteroviruses, such as enterovirus 71, can also cause the disease. The virus spreads through:
Nasal secretions or throat discharge
Saliva
Fluid from blisters
Stool of an infected person
Respiratory droplets produced by coughing or sneezing
Medicine Used
There is no specific medicine to cure HFMD. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms:
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help reduce fever and pain.
Mouthwashes or sprays: Topical anesthetics such as benzocaine can provide temporary relief from mouth sores, but they are generally not recommended for young children.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids is crucial to prevent dehydration, especially because mouth sores can make it painful to swallow. Water, milk, or popsicles are good choices. Avoid acidic drinks like juice, which can irritate the sores.
Is Communicable
Yes, HFMD is highly communicable. It spreads easily through close contact with infected individuals, especially during the first week of illness.
Precautions
To prevent the spread of HFMD:
Wash hands frequently: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after changing diapers, using the toilet, and before preparing food.
Avoid close contact: Limit close contact (hugging, kissing, sharing cups and utensils) with infected individuals.
Disinfect surfaces: Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys, doorknobs, and countertops.
Teach good hygiene: Educate children about the importance of handwashing and covering their mouths when coughing or sneezing.
Stay home when sick: Keep children home from school or daycare if they have HFMD to prevent further spread.
How long does an outbreak last?
An individual outbreak of HFMD typically lasts for 7 to 10 days.
How is it diagnosed?
HFMD is usually diagnosed based on a physical examination and the characteristic symptoms (mouth sores and rash on hands and feet). A doctor may ask about the patient's medical history and recent contacts. Lab tests are rarely needed, but in some cases, a swab from the throat or stool sample may be taken to confirm the diagnosis.
Timeline of Symptoms
Day 1-2: Fever, sore throat, loss of appetite, general feeling of being unwell.
Day 2-3: Painful sores begin to appear in the mouth.
Day 3-4: Skin rash develops, typically on the hands and feet.
Day 7-10: Symptoms gradually improve, and the sores and rash begin to heal.
Important Considerations
Dehydration: Ensure the child drinks enough fluids to prevent dehydration, as mouth sores can make swallowing painful.
Secondary Infections: While rare, secondary bacterial infections can occur if the sores are scratched or broken.
Nail Loss: In some cases, particularly with certain strains of the virus, temporary nail loss (usually fingernails) can occur weeks after the initial infection. This is usually not permanent.
Pregnant Women: Pregnant women who contract HFMD are usually not at increased risk for complications, but they should consult their doctor for advice.
Infrequent Re-infection: It is possible to get HFMD more than once, as different viruses can cause the disease.