Author Topic: Hand, Foot, & Mouth Disease:Causes, Symptoms, Risk Groups & Treatments.  (Read 61 times)

Offline LoShiNi

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There are countless viruses that can infect human beings. In most cases, children are among the most vulnerable. In the US, there is a disease, which frequently attacks this group of the population: Hand, foot, and mouth disease.

This is a common viral condition which generally affects babies and small children, almost always under the age of 5. Although, sometimes adults can be affected. It’s known by the acronym HFMD.




Symptoms:

1. Fever.

2. Loss of appetite.

3. Throat pain and general feeling of discomfort.





4. Mouth ulcers.

5. Rash with red marks or blisters on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Though the rash may also appear on the knees, elbows, buttocks or the genital area.

How does one catch the virus?


The virus can be caught via the exchange of secretions, such as saliva or nasal mucus. It can also be transmitted if we make contact with an infected person and expose ourselves to the liquid inside the blisters. We’re also at-risk if we remain in a closed room with an infected person who is coughing or sneezing; or even if we touch objects previously touched by a contagious person. We must also avoid contact with fecal matter, especially in the case of babies (when in need of a diaper change).

Causes of the virus:

The Coxsackie A16 virus is the most common cause.

Treatment:

To date, there is no specific treatment exclusively for the disease. However, doctors can prescribe medication to alleviate discomfort and reduce fever. It’s also advisable to use mouth wash to reduce discomfort caused by ulcers.

Prevention:


1. Wash hands thoroughly after going to the bathroom or upon returning home. If changing diapers, maintaining proper hygiene is essential.

2. Periodically clean toys and furniture or objects around the house.

3. Avoid sharing personal objects, such as toothbrushes, spoons, drinking glasses, plates or any other eating utensil.



Although there is no preventative vaccine, we can avoid catching the virus. The basis of this prevention is proper hygiene and taking proper measures around those infected.