Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is often associated with young children, but adults are also susceptible. While it primarily affects children under five years old, anyone can contract HFMD. Adult symptoms can sometimes be more uncomfortable or severe than those in children. The illness is generally not serious, and most people recover within 7 to 10 days.
How Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease Presents in Adults
The initial signs of HFMD in adults often resemble a common viral illness, beginning with symptoms such as fever, a sore throat, and a general feeling of being unwell. These initial symptoms can progress to the more characteristic rash and painful blisters. The rash typically appears as small, red spots or bumps that can turn into fluid-filled blisters, often found on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, but also on elbows, knees, buttocks, face, arms, and legs.
Painful sores can also develop inside the mouth, on the tongue, and in the throat, which can make eating and drinking difficult. While symptoms in adults are generally similar to those in children, adults might experience more intense pain, higher fever, and a more widespread rash. The duration of symptoms can also be longer for adults. Weeks after the initial infection, individuals, more commonly adults, may experience nail shedding (onychomadesis), where fingernails or toenails separate from the nail bed. This nail loss is temporary, with new nails growing back.
Understanding Transmission and Prevention
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is highly contagious, spreading through close contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids, including respiratory secretions like saliva, nasal mucus, and droplets from coughs or sneezes. The virus can also be found in blister fluid and stool. Common scenarios for adult transmission include caring for infected children, sharing eating utensils, or direct contact with an infected individual through kissing or hugging. The virus can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces like doorknobs or toys and then touching one’s eyes, nose, or mouth. An infected person is most contagious during the first week of illness, even before symptoms fully appear, and the virus can remain in their stool for weeks after symptoms resolve.
Preventing the Spread
Preventing the spread of HFMD largely relies on consistent hygiene practices. Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is important, especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, or before eating. Avoiding touching one’s eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands can also help prevent infection. Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and shared items, such as countertops and doorknobs, is also a useful measure. To reduce transmission, it is advisable to avoid close personal contact, like kissing or sharing food and drinks, with individuals who are infected.
Coping with the Infection
Managing Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in adults primarily involves supportive care to alleviate symptoms, as there is no specific antiviral treatment. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage fever and general discomfort. Maintaining adequate hydration is important, particularly if mouth sores make swallowing painful, so consuming plenty of cool fluids is recommended. Avoiding acidic or spicy foods and opting for soft, bland foods can help minimize irritation. Gargling with salt water or using oral numbing sprays may provide some relief for painful mouth sores.
Most individuals recover from HFMD within 7 to 10 days without medical intervention. However, seeking medical attention is advisable if symptoms do not improve after this period or if they become severe. Signs such as a very high or persistent fever, indications of dehydration like decreased urination, a stiff neck, or a severe headache warrant a doctor’s visit. Individuals who are immunocompromised or pregnant should also consult a healthcare provider if they suspect they have HFMD. Resting and avoiding work or public places during the contagious period, especially while fever is present and blisters are open, helps prevent further spread.