Hand Foot Mouth Disease

Hand Foot Mouth Disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common infection caused by a group of viruses.[1] It typically begins with a fever and feeling generally unwell.[1] This is followed a day or two later by flat discolored spots or bumps that may blister, on the hands, feet, and mouth, and occasionally buttocks and groin.[2][3][4] Signs and symptoms normally appear 3–6 days after exposure to the virus.[5] The rash generally goes away on its own in about a week.[6] Fingernail and toenail loss may occur a few weeks later and these then regrow.[7]

The viruses that cause HFMD are spread through close personal contact, through the air from coughing, and the feces of an infected person. Contaminated objects can also spread the disease.[8] Coxsackievirus A16 is the most common cause and Enterovirus 71 is the second-most common cause.[9] Other strains of coxsackievirus and enterovirus can also be responsible.[9][10] Some people may carry and pass on the virus despite having no symptoms of disease.[1] Other animals are not involved.[8] Diagnosis can often be made based on symptoms. Occasionally throat or stool sample may be tested for the virus.[11]

Handwashing may prevent spread and those infected should not go to work, daycare, or school.[8] No antiviral medication or vaccine is available, but development efforts are underway.[12] Most cases require no specific treatment.[6] Simple pain medication such as ibuprofen or numbing mouth gel may be used. Occasionally intravenous fluids are given to children who are unable to drink enough.[13] Rarely viral meningitis or encephalitis may complicate the disease.[7]

HFMD occurs in all areas of the world.[14] It often occurs in small outbreaks in nursery schools or kindergartens.[4] Large outbreaks have been occurring in Asia since 1997. It usually occurs during the spring, summer, and fall months.[14] Typically it occurs in children less than five years old, but can occasionally occur in adults.[1][4] HFMD should not be confused with foot-and-mouth disease (also known as hoof-and-mouth disease) which mostly affects livestock.[15]