Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

It is a non-dangerous but highly contagious viral disease that spreads quickly in schools and nurseries. It is common in infants and children under the age of 5, but it can affect older children and adults. Most people infected with it experience mild symptoms for 7 to 10 days.

Modes of Transmission

The virus is present in nasal and throat secretions (such as saliva or nasal mucus), the fluid from blisters, and feces. It spreads through:

• Direct contact: Skin contact, sharing cups, or eating utensils.
• Respiratory system: Droplets from coughing or sneezing, and nasal/mouth secretions.
• Indirect contact: Touching contaminated surfaces (e.g., pencils, door handles) and then touching the eyes, mouth, or nose.

Symptoms

• Fever and flu-like symptoms.
• Painful mouth ulcers, often on the tongue and inside the mouth.
• Rash: Flat, fluid-filled red spots on palms, soles, and sometimes buttocks, legs, and arms.
• Drooling more than usual.
• Difficulty swallowing or a preference for cold liquids.

Infectious Period

• Most contagious during the first week.
• Can spread the virus for days or weeks after symptoms disappear, even without visible symptoms.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if:

• High fever lasts more than three days.
• The affected person is an infant under six months old.
• Symptoms persist beyond 10 days.
• The child shows signs of dehydration or has a weak immune system.

Treatment

• No specific treatment, but symptoms can be managed by:
• Staying hydrated.
• Using medications to reduce fever and relieve pain.

Methods of Prevention

• Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable.
• Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick (e.g. hugging)
• Isolate infected children for at least seven days.