Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness, particularly affecting young children. It manifests with characteristic symptoms, including a distinctive rash with spots or blisters on the hands, feet, and sometimes the buttocks, along with painful mouth sores.
Understanding Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is a viral infection primarily caused by viruses belonging to the enterovirus family. The most common culprits are Coxsackievirus A16, though other coxsackieviruses and Enterovirus 71 can also be responsible, sometimes leading to more severe symptoms. The infection spreads easily from person to person through direct contact with nose and throat discharges, fluid from blisters, or feces of an infected individual.
The virus can also be transmitted through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching one’s eyes, nose, or mouth. Initial symptoms typically appear three to six days after exposure, known as the incubation period. These early signs often resemble a common cold or flu, including fever, sore throat, and reduced appetite.
The Blister Progression and Duration
Following the initial flu-like symptoms, the characteristic rash and blisters of HFMD typically emerge within one to two days after the fever begins. These lesions commonly appear as small red spots on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, and sometimes on the buttocks, knees, or diaper area. The rash can be uncomfortable.
Concurrently, painful, blister-like lesions often form inside the mouth, particularly on the tongue, gums, and inside the cheeks. These mouth sores can be yellow-grey ulcers with red edges and can make eating, drinking, and swallowing difficult. The rash and blisters may appear simultaneously or a few days apart, evolving from small red spots to fluid-filled blisters that may burst.
The blisters and mouth sores generally resolve on their own, with the overall illness typically lasting seven to ten days from onset to healing. While the rash on the hands and feet can last between five to seven days, the mouth ulcers usually pass within a week. Some individuals, especially children under two, may take slightly longer to clear the virus, and the skin on the affected areas might peel after the rash has healed.
Supporting Your Child Through HFMD
Managing Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease involves alleviating discomfort and preventing complications. Ensuring adequate hydration is a primary concern, as mouth sores can make swallowing difficult. Offering frequent sips of water, electrolyte solutions, or even icy poles can help prevent dehydration.
Soft, cold foods like yogurt, smoothies, or applesauce are often easier to consume and can soothe a sore mouth. Avoid spicy, acidic, or hot foods and beverages, as they can further irritate mouth sores. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage fever and pain. Topical oral anesthetics may also offer relief for painful mouth ulcers.
When to Consult a Doctor
While Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is typically mild and resolves on its own, medical consultation is sometimes advisable. Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or do not improve after seven to ten days. Also contact a healthcare professional if a child is not drinking enough fluids and shows signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination, dry mouth, or lethargy.
Other warning signs include a high or persistent fever that does not respond to medication, severe discomfort, or if the child is unusually drowsy, pale, or irritable. Although rare, complications like viral meningitis or encephalitis can occur; symptoms such as severe headache, neck stiffness, seizures, confusion, or difficulty breathing require immediate medical evaluation.
Preventing Future Outbreaks
Preventing the spread of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease relies on good hygiene practices. Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is essential, particularly after using the toilet, changing diapers, or before preparing food. Children should also be taught to wash their hands regularly.
Disinfection of frequently touched surfaces and shared items, such as toys and doorknobs, can help eliminate the virus. Avoid close contact with infected individuals, including hugging, kissing, or sharing eating utensils. Infected children should remain home from school or daycare until their fever has resolved and blisters have dried. The virus can still be shed in stool for several weeks.