Whenever there is a surge of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD), it gets parents and healthcare workers worried. Many toddlers and children, especially those below five years of age, have already been affected, sometimes even infecting their adult caregivers.
HFMD is an acute viral illness that usually starts with a fever and the appearance of red rashes on the hands, feet, buttocks, and in the mouth. These red rashes rapidly form fluid-filled vesicles over the extremities. The red spots found in the mouth quickly become painful ulcers over the tongue, palate, or inner cheeks, causing the affected child to eat/drink poorly and sometimes render them unable to swallow saliva.
What causes it?
HFMD is caused by the coxsackie or enterovirus group of viruses. They are usually not life-threatening and symptoms may last seven to 10 days. However, certain viral strains may be more serious causing seizures, difficulty breathing, abnormal heart rhythms, etc.
Thankfully, most HFMD patients recover on their own. Children only need to be admitted if they are unable to consume orally, become more lethargic (dehydrated), or have some signs to suggest the more severe, complicated case of HFMD.
How it spreads
As it is a viral illness, no specific medication can be given, neither is there a vaccination to prevent it. It spreads via the contact from an infected person through body fluids (saliva/faeces) or directly from the vesicular rash. Hence, prevention is most crucial. Persons suspected to have the disease should be quarantined at home. Hand hygiene and disinfection of toys, surfaces, linen, etc, will also help curb the further spread.
Treatment
Once diagnosed with HFMD, symptomatic medication can be given to reduce fever and pain. It would help to give the patient soft foods or cold food (yogurt or ice cream!) to temporarily soothe and bring up energy levels. Keeping hydrated is a must. An infected person should not be contagious anymore once all rashes have dried up.
By Dr Shalini Shanmugam,
Consultant Pediatrician,
Columbia Asia Hospital, Petaling Jaya
