Hand-foot-and-mouth disease, a mild and contagious viral infection prevalent in young children, manifests through symptoms such as mouth sores and a rash on the hands and feet. Typically caused by the coxsackievirus, this condition lacks a specific treatment. To mitigate the risk of infection, emphasize frequent hand-washing and avoidance of close contact with individuals affected by hand-foot-and-mouth disease.
Symptoms
Hand-foot-and-mouth disease may present various symptoms, including fever, sore throat, general malaise, and painful, blister-like lesions on the tongue, gums, and inside the cheeks. Additionally, a non-itchy rash may appear on the palms, soles, and sometimes buttocks, with its color varying based on skin tone. Fussiness, loss of appetite, and different rash manifestations on the hands and feet are common in infants and toddlers.
Causes
Coxsackievirus 16 is the primary culprit behind hand-foot-and-mouth disease, belonging to a group of viruses known as nonpolio enteroviruses. Transmission occurs through person-to-person contact involving various bodily fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated surfaces. The infection is particularly prevalent in child care settings due to the close proximity and hygiene habits of young children.
Risk Factors
Primarily affecting children under 5 to 7 years old, hand-foot-and-mouth disease is most common in child care settings. Older children and adults may have immunity, but adolescents and adults can still contract the illness. Contagiousness is highest during the initial week of infection, with the virus lingering in the body for weeks post-symptoms, leading to potential transmission.
Complications
While hand-foot-and-mouth disease is usually minor, complications such as dehydration can arise due to painful sores hindering swallowing. In rare cases, the virus may lead to viral meningitis or encephalitis, involving inflammation of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
Prevention
Reducing the risk of hand-foot-and-mouth disease involves practices such as frequent hand-washing, teaching good hygiene to children, disinfecting common areas, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Outbreaks are more common in summer and early autumn, especially in tropical climates during the rainy season.
Home Remedies
Managing symptoms at home includes encouraging fluid intake, avoiding citrus fruits, and practicing good oral hygiene. Swishing warm salt water can alleviate pain associated with mouth blisters and throat sores.
Outlook
Recovery from hand-foot-and-mouth disease typically occurs within 7 to 10 days. While complications are rare, immediate medical attention is necessary if symptoms worsen or persist beyond 10 days.
Care at Home
Treatment at home involves providing pain relief, ensuring hydration, allowing blisters to dry naturally, and seeking medical attention if the child displays concerning symptoms like fever with an unusual rash.
Key Points
Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is a self-limiting illness, primarily affecting young children. Caution should be exercised to address symptoms, and medical attention is crucial in case of complications or prolonged illness.