Summary about Disease
Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) is a common, contagious viral illness that primarily affects infants and children younger than 5 years old. It is characterized by a distinctive rash that includes blisters on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth. While usually mild, it can be uncomfortable.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
Fever
Sore throat
Reduced appetite
Painful sores in the mouth (herpangina), usually on the tongue, gums, and inside of the cheeks
A skin rash with small, red blisters on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and sometimes the buttocks and/or genitals
Irritability in infants and toddlers.
Causes
HFMD is most commonly caused by the Coxsackievirus A16. Other enteroviruses, such as Enterovirus 71, can also cause the disease. It spreads through:
Nasal secretions or throat discharge
Saliva
Fluid from blisters
Feces of an infected person
Respiratory droplets produced by coughing or sneezing.
Medicine Used
There is no specific antiviral treatment for HFMD. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms:
Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for fever and pain
Topical anesthetics like mouthwash or sprays to numb mouth sores (use with caution in young children)
Staying hydrated is very important.
Is Communicable
Yes, HFMD is highly communicable, especially during the first week of illness. It spreads easily through close contact.
Precautions
Wash hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water, especially after changing diapers or using the toilet.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items, such as toys and doorknobs.
Avoid close contact with infected individuals, such as kissing, hugging, or sharing utensils.
Keep children with HFMD home from daycare or school until the fever is gone and the blisters have crusted over.
How long does an outbreak last?
The illness typically lasts 7 to 10 days.
How is it diagnosed?
HFMD is usually diagnosed through a physical examination by a healthcare provider. The characteristic rash and other symptoms are usually sufficient for diagnosis. Lab tests are usually not needed.
Timeline of Symptoms
Day 1-2: Fever, sore throat, loss of appetite.
Day 2-3: Painful mouth sores develop.
Day 3-4: Skin rash appears on hands and feet, possibly buttocks.
Day 7-10: Symptoms begin to resolve. Blisters crust over and heal.
Important Considerations
Dehydration is a significant concern due to painful mouth sores, especially in young children. Encourage frequent sips of cool fluids.
While HFMD is usually mild, complications like viral meningitis or encephalitis are rare but possible. Seek medical attention if neurological symptoms develop.
Adults can get HFMD, although they may not experience symptoms or have milder symptoms. They can still transmit the virus.
Having HFMD once does not guarantee immunity. It is possible to get it again, as it can be caused by different strains of viruses.