Herpangina is a common viral illness primarily affecting young children, especially those under 10 in settings like daycares and schools. While less common, adults can also contract this infection, making it important to understand its nature and potential effects.
What is Herpangina?
Herpangina is a viral infection characterized by a sudden onset of fever and painful, blister-like sores that appear in the back of the mouth and throat, specifically on the soft palate, tonsils, and posterior pharynx. These lesions often appear as small red spots evolving into yellowish ulcers with a red border. The condition is primarily caused by enteroviruses, most frequently Coxsackievirus A, though other Coxsackieviruses, echovirus, and enterovirus 71 can also cause it.
It is important to distinguish herpangina from hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). While herpangina causes sores exclusively in the mouth and throat, HFMD presents with blisters on the hands, feet, and sometimes other body areas, in addition to mouth sores. Herpangina is a self-limiting illness, with symptoms usually resolving within a week to 10 days.
Contagion and Adult Susceptibility
Herpangina is highly contagious and transmissible to adults. The viruses spread through various routes, including the fecal-oral route, respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, and direct contact with fluid from the blisters. Contaminated surfaces and objects, such as toys or utensils, can also transmit the virus, which survives on them for extended periods.
Adults often contract herpangina through close contact with infected children. Adult susceptibility can be influenced by a temporarily reduced immune system or prolonged exposure in crowded environments like households or childcare settings. The incubation period, the time between exposure and symptom onset, typically ranges from three to five days. Individuals are most contagious during the first one to two weeks of the illness, even if they show no symptoms, and the virus can be shed in stool for up to three to eight weeks after symptoms disappear.
Symptoms and Management for Adults
When adults contract herpangina, symptoms are similar to those in children but can be more pronounced. Common symptoms include a sudden high fever, severe sore throat, headache, and painful mouth sores, which can make swallowing difficult. Other symptoms include neck pain, swollen lymph glands, and a loss of appetite.
Management for herpangina in adults is supportive, focusing on symptom relief, as it is a viral infection and antibiotics are not effective. Pain and fever can be managed with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Maintaining adequate hydration is important, especially due to swallowing difficulties from mouth sores. Cold fluids, popsicles, and soft, bland foods can help soothe the throat. A healthcare provider should be consulted if fever or mouth sores persist for more than five days, if there are signs of dehydration, or if symptoms worsen.
Preventing Spread
Preventing the spread of herpangina involves consistent hygiene practices, particularly in households with infected individuals. Frequent handwashing with soap and water is a primary measure, especially after using the restroom, changing diapers, or before preparing food. This practice helps interrupt the fecal-oral transmission route.
Avoiding close personal contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils and drinks, with someone who is sick can help reduce transmission. Regular disinfection of frequently touched surfaces and shared objects, including toys, electronics, and doorknobs, is important as the virus can survive on these surfaces. Isolating sick individuals, especially from those with weakened immune systems, can help contain the infection.