Amid the rise of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases in NCR and other parts of the country, it is important for us parents to know more about this disease. Knowledge can enable us to take measures on how to protect our children against it or how to help them recover from the disease quickly.
What causes HFMD and how do you get it?
HFMD is caused by viruses that belong to the Enterovirus family. This is a common infection among children younger than 5 years old. The virus can spread from person to person through a patient’s saliva or nasal secretions, fluid from the rash, and feces (poop).
We can easily diagnose HFMD by examining the patient and asking about their age and other symptoms. Sometimes, laboratory examinations are requested.
What are the symptoms of HFMD?
The common symptoms include fever, mouth sores, and skin rash.
Fever: may be accompanied by decrease in appetite, sore throat and just feeling unwell.
Mouth sores: may be found on the tongue and inside the mouth. They can form blisters and be painful.
Skin rash: mostly on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. This is not usually itchy.
How do you treat HFMD?
Although common and contagious, most kids with HFMD will have mild symptoms. They will get better on their own in 7 to 10 days.
There is no specific treatment, but we should address the discomfort and prevent dehydration. Fever-reducers and pain relief medications, in proper dosage and frequency, can be given. It is equally important to encourage the patient to drink enough liquids. They may refuse to drink because of the pain from the mouth sores, but parents have to ensure they still drink enough to stay hydrated. Lastly, instruct your child to avoid touching the blisters to keep them clean and free from contamination.
Most cases can be treated at home, but visit your doctor if your child is less than 6 months old or if he/she has a weak immune system. Also, take note of the following symptoms that will necessitate a follow-up with your pediatrician. Watch out for:
- Inability to drink normally that may lead to dehydration
- Less alertness and responsiveness
- Fever lasts longer than 3 days
- Symptoms that do not improve after 10 days
- Symptoms are severe
How can you prevent HFMD?
A vaccine that can protect against the HFMD viruses is not yet available. To prevent it from spreading, you can follow these general guidelines:
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can also be used if soap and water are not available. This is the most effective way of preventing HFMD. It is also important to help and teach your children how to properly wash their hands and often.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, especially with unwashed hands.
- Clean high touch surfaces and shared items, including toys, doorknobs, elevator buttons, toilets, flush handles, sinks, desks, keyboards, etc.
- Avoid close contact, like hugging and kissing, with sick people.
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Reference: CDC. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)
