What is hand foot and mouth disease?
Hand foot and mouth disease, one of the childhood viral rash diseases, is characterized by a prominent rash in these 3 areas, as the name suggests. At the beginning of the disease, symptoms such as fever, weakness, muscle aches and restlessness are observed. In the following days, the rash becomes more prominent and the disease picture settles down. The rash and fever may last 4-5 days and may vary between 38 C and 40 C. Difficulty in swallowing and reluctance to feed are common due to sores in the mouth. The rash may be itchy and painful. While most patients recover spontaneously, inpatient fluid (IV) therapy may be required in patients with feeding difficulties and persistent fever.
How is hand foot and mouth disease transmitted?
It can be transmitted from one sick child to another through breathing and contact. Schools, kindergartens and playgrounds where there is a lot of close contact are especially risky in terms of transmission, especially in summer months.
Can adults get hand foot and mouth disease?
Yes, but it may not have the same symptoms as in a child and may present as a cold or diarrhea. It usually resolves spontaneously without intervention.
Is there a vaccine for hand foot and mouth disease?
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine and it leaves no lasting immunity. This means that it can happen again and again.
How is hand foot and mouth disease treated?
Like other viral infections, treatment is given according to the symptoms. If we say what is the treatment according to the findings, we can give an example of providing fever control if there is fever. As we recommend in other viral infections, it is important to drink plenty of water, eat a balanced diet and rest during this process. There is no need to use cream etc. for lesions on hands and feet. It is enough to keep them clean.
How long does it take to heal?
It lasts 7-10 days and heals spontaneously. If there is a fever lasting longer than 6 days, you should definitely go for a check-up.
Can a child with hand foot and mouth disease take a bath? Can he/she go in the sea or pool?
It is okay to take a warm bath. It is better to keep the bath short and use tampon movements to dry yourself. Entering the pool is not recommended, it can infect existing wounds. Short-term visits to the sea should not be a problem. If there is an open wound, only cleaning is recommended.
How can we prevent hand foot and mouth disease?
- First of all, stay away from individuals infected with this disease
- Pay attention to hand hygiene of children
- Do not use common plates and cups
- Pay attention to hand hygiene of sick children or babies before and after diaper change
- Avoid hugging and kissing
- And most importantly, drink plenty of water.