This common virus mostly affects children under age 5
Photo Credits: Caribbean 360, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation
Name
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)
Transmission
- A disease caused by the viruses that belong to the Enterovirus group
- The viruses spread:
- When someone comes in contact with an infected person’s:
- saliva, sputum, or nasal mucus
- blister fluid
- feces
- Through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes
- Via contaminated surfaces
- When someone comes in contact with an infected person’s:
- The infection is not related to foot and mouth disease, which affects animals such as cattle, sheep and pigs
Geography
Worldwide, but outbreaks have become increasingly more common in Asia
Incubation Period
3 – 7 days
Signs and Symptoms
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Coughing
- Stomach pain
- Sore throat
- Mouth sores (ulcers)
- Skin rash
- Skin blisters or sores
Diagnosis
Laboratory testing of throat or feces samples
Treatment
- There is no treatment or cure for HFMD, the virus must run its course
- Painkillers can ease the pain and drinking fluids can prevent dehydration
Prognosis
- Most people recover fully within 10 days
- Complications from HFMD are rare but can include meningitis, encephalitis, and neurological, cardiovascular and respiratory problems
Prevention: What Can You Do?
- If you know someone has, HFMD be sure to avoid any direct contact
- People can remain contagious for days or weeks after symptoms disappear and some people, especially adults, may not develop any symptoms so maintaining good hygiene and handwashing will reduce the chance of infection
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease In the News
