Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is commonly recognized as a childhood illness, often spreading rapidly in daycares and schools. While children are the most frequent demographic affected, adults can also contract this contagious viral infection. This often leads to questions about its transmission, severity, and the possibility of experiencing it more than once.
How Adults Contract Hand Foot and Mouth Disease
Adults typically acquire Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease through close personal contact with an infected individual. This often occurs when adults are exposed to young children with the virus, such as parents, caregivers, or educators. Transmission routes include contact with respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, or with an infected person’s saliva, nasal mucus, or throat discharge.
The virus also spreads through contact with fluid from blisters or fecal matter, for instance, during diaper changes. Contaminated objects and surfaces, like doorknobs, toys, or shared eating utensils, can harbor the virus. Infection occurs if a person touches these items and then their eyes, nose, or mouth. Individuals can be contagious even without showing symptoms, making it possible for adults to spread the virus unknowingly.
Why Reinfection is Possible
Reinfection with Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is possible because the illness is caused by various types of viruses within the enterovirus family. Common culprits include Coxsackievirus A16, Coxsackievirus A6, and Enterovirus 71 (EV71). When an individual contracts HFMD, their immune system develops protection against the specific viral strain that caused that infection.
However, this immunity does not extend to other strains. Consequently, if an adult is later exposed to a different enterovirus strain, they can become infected again. For example, Coxsackievirus A16 is a frequent cause in the United States, while Coxsackievirus A6 can lead to more severe symptoms, and Enterovirus 71 is often associated with outbreaks in East and Southeast Asia. The existence of these diverse strains means prior infection offers only partial protection, allowing for multiple occurrences of HFMD.
Navigating Adult Hand Foot and Mouth Disease
When adults contract Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, symptoms can often be more pronounced than those experienced by children. The illness typically begins with general discomfort such as fever, sore throat, and reduced appetite. Painful mouth sores, appearing as small red spots that can blister, commonly develop on the tongue, gums, and inside the cheeks, making eating and drinking difficult.
A characteristic rash of red spots, sometimes with blisters, can emerge on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. This rash may also extend to areas like the knees, elbows, buttocks, or genital region. Adults might also report muscle aches, joint pain, and fatigue. Symptoms usually resolve within 7 to 10 days. Supportive care focuses on managing discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Staying well-hydrated, using numbing mouthwashes, and avoiding acidic or spicy foods can help alleviate pain from mouth sores.
Reducing Your Risk
Preventing Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in adults centers on minimizing exposure to the viruses. Consistent and thorough handwashing with soap and water is a primary defense, especially after changing diapers, using the restroom, or before eating. This practice helps remove viral particles.
Avoiding close contact with individuals sick with HFMD, including refraining from sharing personal items like cups or utensils, can significantly reduce transmission risk. Regular cleaning and disinfecting of frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, countertops, and shared toys, are also important preventative measures. While the virus is most contagious during the first week of illness, it can still be shed for weeks after symptoms disappear, so continued vigilance is advisable.