Hand Foot Mouth Disease (HFMD)

This is a common viral illness caused by Coxsackievirus which can affect anyone but generally affects children below 5 years of age.

Symptoms

• Fever

• Loss of appetite

• Mouth ulcers especially on the tongue and back of mouth (this causes difficulty in swallowing)

• Rashes and blisters on hands, feet and buttocks

How does it spread?

It spreads through close contact such as hugging kissing or sharing same cups or utensils, by coughing or sneezing, by touching surfaces contaminated by fluid from blisters

Prevention

• No vaccine is available for its prevention

• Avoid close contact with someone who is suffering from the infection

• Do not share cups for drinking or utensils for eating

• Clean and sanitize surfaces

• Wash hands frequently

Treatment

It is a viral infection which is self limiting. It heals without treatment within 7-10 days. Paracetamol may be used for pain and fever. Calamine lotion can be used on rashes

Avoid hot, spicy foods. Try feeding yogurt, smoothies and soft and bland diet. Give plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.