Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness that primarily affects infants and young children, though it can occur at any age. This contagious condition typically presents with a characteristic rash and sores, often circulating in communities, especially in settings where young children gather, such as daycares and schools.
Understanding Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is primarily caused by viruses belonging to the enterovirus family, specifically certain coxsackievirus strains. Coxsackievirus A16 is a common culprit in the United States, while other strains like Coxsackievirus A6 and Enterovirus 71 also cause the illness. Transmission occurs person-to-person, often through direct contact with an infected person’s nose and throat secretions, such as saliva, mucus, or fluid from blisters. The virus can also be shed in stool for several weeks, contributing to its spread through contaminated surfaces or fecal-oral routes. Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing can also transmit the virus.
Why Reinfection Occurs
Individuals can contract Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease more than once because it is caused by multiple distinct viral strains. When a person becomes infected with one specific strain, their body develops immunity only to that particular virus. This means they remain susceptible to infection by other coxsackievirus or enterovirus strains that also cause HFMD. For instance, an initial infection with Coxsackievirus A16 provides immunity against A16, but not against Coxsackievirus A6 or Enterovirus 71. While recurrent infections are possible, symptoms in older children and adults may sometimes be milder than initial infections, as their immune systems may be better equipped to handle the viral challenge.
Recognizing and Managing HFM
Symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease typically appear three to six days after exposure to the virus. The illness often begins with a fever, sore throat, and a general feeling of being unwell, sometimes accompanied by a reduced appetite. Within one to two days, painful sores can develop in the mouth, often on the tongue, gums, and inside the cheeks, which may blister.
A characteristic rash usually appears on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, and sometimes on the buttocks, knees, or elbows. This rash may consist of flat red spots or small blisters, which are generally not itchy.
Most cases of HFMD are mild and resolve within seven to ten days. Management focuses on relieving symptoms, such as using acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain and fever. Staying hydrated is important, especially since painful mouth sores can make swallowing difficult. Medical advice should be sought if symptoms worsen, if there are signs of dehydration, or if a high fever persists.
Preventing HFM and Future Infections
Preventing the spread of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease relies on good hygiene. Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is important, particularly after using the toilet, changing diapers, or before preparing food. Teaching children proper hand hygiene is also an effective preventive measure.
Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and shared items, such as toys and doorknobs, helps eliminate the virus from the environment. Avoiding close contact, such as hugging or kissing, with infected individuals is also advised. If a child is unwell with HFMD, keeping them home from school or daycare until their fever has resolved and blisters have dried helps prevent further transmission.