HAND, FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE (HFMD)
HFMD
-A common viral infection that causes painful red blisters in the mouth and throat, and on the hands, feet, and diaper area.
-The infection can affect people of all ages, but it usually occurs in children under age 5.
OVERVIEW
CAUSATIVE AGENT
- Coxsackievirus A16
- Enterovirus 71 (EV-A71)
CAUSATIVE
AGENT
Coxsackievirus A16 (CA16)
- Coxsackievirus A16 is typically the most common cause of hand, foot, and mouth disease
Coxsackievirus A16
- Coxsackieviruses can remain viable on hard, nonporous surfaces for upwards of two weeks in conditions of high and low temperature and humidity
Enterovirus 71
(EV-A71)
-EV-A71 can be found in an infected person’s respiratory secretions, such as saliva, nasal mucus, or sputum (mucus-like secretions sometimes produced in the lungs during infection), in their stool (poop), and in their blisters if they have hand, foot, and mouth disease.
Enterovirus 71 (EV-A71)
-Although rare, EV-A71 has been associated with more severe diseases such as encephalitis.
TRANSMISSION
- Contact with respiratory droplets containing virus particles after a sick person coughs or sneezes.
- Touching an infected person or making other close contact, like kissing, hugging, or sharing cups or eating utensils.
- Touching an infected person’s feces, such as changing diapers, then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Touching objects and surfaces that have the virus on them, like doorknobs or toys, then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
SIGNS &
SYMPTOMS
- Painful, red, blister-like lesions on the tongue, gums and inside of the cheeks
- A red rash, without itching but sometimes with blistering, on the palms, soles and sometimes the buttocks
- Irritability in infants and toddlers
- Loss of appetite
- Sore throat
- Feeling unwell
- Fever
HOW HFMD DIAGNOSED?
- A doctor can often diagnose HFMD simply by performing a physical exam. They'll check the mouth and body for the appearance of blisters and rashes.
- The doctor will also ask you or your child about other symptoms.
- The doctor may take a throat swab or stool sample that can be tested for the virus.
TREATMENT
- Over-the-counter pain relief. Experts also recommend OTC pain relievers to help bring down a fever , such as ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)
TREATMENT
- Plenty of liquids. Make sure your child is hydrating, either with breast milk or formula, or, if he’s older, with water.
- Cold or soft foods. Foods that are cooling and easy to eat will help soothe a sore throat and painful mouth.
- Cover mouth blisters. This can help soothe irritation and make it easier for babies and toddlers to drink