Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is Spreading Very Rapidly

This year we are experience a major outbreak. Children under 5 are extremely vulnerable. Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is a highly contagious viral infection. It causes red sores in the mouth, hands and feet. Clinics and hospitals around the United States are seeing a very fast-pace rise in cases. Why? Because this spreads very quickly.

Where is the Hand, Foot and Virus Found

• Nose and throat secretions (such as saliva, sputum, or nasal mucus)
• Bister Fluid
• Poop (feces)

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease spreads from an infected person to others from:

• Close contact, such as kissing, hugging, or sharing cups and eating utensils;
• Coughing and sneezing;
• Contact with poop, for example when changing a diaper;
• Contact with blister fluid;
• Touching objects or surfaces that have the virus on them.
• This is why you should always try to maintain good hygiene, like washing hands often with soap and water, to reduce your chance of getting and spreading HFMD.

Symptoms

• Red sores in mouth, on hands and on feet, especially on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet;
• Fevers that can last up to five days;
• Sore throat;
• Blisters and blister fluid;
• Nose and throat secretions (such as saliva, sputum or nasal mucus);
• Some children will get blisters in their mouth which makes drinking and eating uncomfortable. This could lead to dehydration.

Treatment

• Hand, Foot and Mouth disease is a virus. There is no treatment which means you will need to monitor and let it runs its course.
• Keep your child away from others.
• Fortunately, this is not serious and does not hold a risk of complications except dehydration

A few steps to Lessen Changes of Getting Sick

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after changing diapers, and help young children do the same.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact such as kissing, hugging, and sharing cups and eating utensils with people who have HFMD.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.
• There is no vaccine to protect against HFMD.

Here’s information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

About author MacKoul Pediatrics

MacKoul Pediatrics is an amazing local pediatrics office in Cape Coral, FL where caring, compassionate doctors and nurses work with you to keep your children as healthy as possible. Dr. David MacKoul and Dr. Amber Loyson care for children from birth to college age, from Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples, and beyond. Give them a call to set-up your child(s) appointment today 239.573.2001 . You’ll be glad to have this team keeping your family healthy.