
Everything about HFMD
Understanding Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) with Dr. Soo
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness that often affects young children, particularly those in childcare or school settings. It is caused by viruses from the Enterovirus group, most notably the Coxsackievirus. Although HFMD is not usually severe, its symptoms, such as fever, painful mouth sores, and a rash on the hands and feet, can be distressing for both children and parents.
Understanding HFMD is essential for early recognition and effective care. Parents can ensure their little ones recover quickly and avoid complications with proper management and preventive measures.
In this article, Dr. Soo provides valuable information about HFMD, from its causes and symptoms to tips on treatment and prevention, equipping parents with the knowledge they need to protect their children.
Common symptoms
- Fever: Often the first sign of HFMD, typically mild to moderate.
- Sore Throat: May accompany fever and cause discomfort.
- Painful Mouth Sores: Small red spots or blisters that develop on the tongue, gums, or inside of the cheeks, making eating and drinking difficult.
- Skin Rash: Red spots or blisters, usually found on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and sometimes on the buttocks or other areas.
- Irritability: Common in young children due to discomfort.
- Fatigue: A general sense of being unwell.
- Loss of Appetite: Caused by the pain of mouth sores.
How does HFMD spread?
HFMD is highly contagious and spreads through several routes:
- Close Contact: Direct contact with an infected person’s saliva, nasal mucus, or respiratory droplets when coughing or sneezing.
- Contaminated Surfaces and Objects: Touching items like toys, doorknobs, or utensils infected with the virus.
- Fecal-Oral Transmission: The virus can spread through contact with feces, especially during diaper changes or improper handwashing.
- Blister Fluids: Direct contact with the fluid from the blisters of an infected person.
HFMD is most contagious during the first week of illness, even before symptoms fully appear. However, the virus can remain in the body for weeks, spreading through stool or respiratory droplets even after recovery.
How to reduce the spread?
- Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water: for at least 20 seconds, especially after changing diapers, using the toilet, and coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces and shared items.
- Avoid close contact with infected individuals, such as hugging, kissing, or sharing food.
- Teach children to cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing.
Treatment and recovery
Usually, most people that infected with HFMD get better on their own in 7 to 10 days with minimal or no medical treatment.
While there is no specific cure for HFMD, parents need to make sure their child
- Stay hydrated: You can take steps to ease symptoms and prevent dehydration while you or your child is unwell. Ensure adequate fluid intake, as mouth sores may cause pain when swallowing, making your child reluctant to drink. Encourage them to drink enough to stay properly hydrated.
- Give fever-reducing medicine (after consulting with the doctor)
- Use soothing creams such as calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream if recommended by a doctor for their rashes.
When to seek medical attention?
1. Severe Dehydration
- If the child refuses to drink or shows signs of dehydration, such as:
- Dry mouth and lips.
- Reduced urination (fewer than 4 wet diapers in 24 hours).
- Sunken eyes or cheeks.
2. Persistent High Fever
- Fever lasting more than 3 days.
- Temperature exceeding 39°C (102.2°F) that doesn’t respond to fever medication.
3. Difficulty Swallowing or Drooling Excessively
- This could indicate painful throat ulcers or swelling that makes eating or drinking difficult.
4. Severe Rash or Worsening Symptoms
- Rash spreads to other parts of the body, becomes severe, or appears infected (redness, swelling, pus).
5. Neurological Symptoms
- Signs of drowsiness, irritability, or confusion.
- Stiff neck or sensitivity to light.
- Seizures or unresponsiveness.
6. Breathing Difficulties
- Any signs of trouble breathing or wheezing.
7. Persistent Vomiting
- Repeated vomiting, especially if combined with other symptoms like lethargy.
HFMD is usually mild, but these symptoms may indicate complications that require urgent medical care. If you notice these signs, consult a pediatrician or visit the nearest clinic or hospital immediately.
The bottom line
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection in children that typically resolves within 7 to 10 days with proper care. Most cases are mild and can be managed at home with hydration, rest, and fever management. However, it’s crucial to monitor for signs of complications, such as dehydration, persistent fever, or neurological symptoms, and seek medical attention if they arise.
Preventive measures, such as frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and maintaining good hygiene, can help reduce the spread of HFMD. While the condition may be uncomfortable, early care and attention to symptoms ensure a smooth recovery for most children.