Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is caused by a viral infection. It usually outbreaks during the rainy season when the weather is hot and humid, and is commonly found in children under 5 years old. Parents with young children need to take special care and be cautious because outbreaks often occur in schools and places where children gather. For parents who are worried about this disease affecting their children or wondering what to do if it occurs, today we will look at how to protect your child from Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease.
Symptoms of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- High fever of 39 degrees Celsius lasting about 2 days
- Feeling unwell and fussy all the time
- Mouth pain, refusal to eat, red spots on the gums, tongue, cheeks, and roof of the mouth
- Then a rash or blisters (usually not itchy) appear on the palms, fingers, and feet, or sometimes on the buttocks, arms, and legs
- If symptoms are mild, they will subside and recover normally within 7-10 days
Transmission of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
The disease is easily transmitted during the first week of illness through direct contact with secretions from the nose, throat, and fluid from blisters. The virus may also be spread via contaminated objects or through coughing and sneezing, as well as through the stool of infected patients. Some cases still have the virus in their stool for about 6-8 weeks after recovery.
Treatment of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
If symptoms are mild, Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease can resolve on its own within 7-10 days without complications. There is no specific medication for this disease; treatment is symptomatic, such as using fever reducers and pain relievers. In cases where the patient cannot eat or drink, intravenous fluids will be given. Some cases may develop complications requiring antibiotics. Patients can get reinfected, so caregivers should closely monitor their child’s symptoms. If complications occur, such as high fever, lethargy, frequent vomiting, difficulty breathing, weakness in limbs, or refusal to eat and drink, they should be taken to see a doctor immediately.
Prevention of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
- Currently, there is a vaccine to prevent severe Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease caused by Enterovirus 71 (EV 71)
- The best prevention is good hygiene, such as keeping nails short, frequently washing hands thoroughly with soap, especially after using the toilet and before eating, using serving spoons, and avoiding sharing personal items
- Isolate infected patients from their peers at school or daycare for 1 week
- Clean floors, bathrooms, utensils, toys, and clothes that may be contaminated with disinfectants capable of killing spores
- If many children are infected, temporary closure of the facility (1-2 weeks) may be necessary for cleaning and disinfection
Dr. Amornrat Aphornwichanap
Pediatric Specialist
Child and Adolescent Health Center, Phyathai Nawamin Hospital
