Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) usually affects infants and children under 10 years old. It is a viral illness that is considered moderately contagious and last for 7 to 10 days. Like most viral illnesses, there is not a specific cure, nor is there a vaccine to prevent infection. The number of cases has been growing in parts of Asia since March of 2008. In China, the number of cases seemed to peak in May at 176,000 confirmed cases of HFMD. In June, China reported less than 4,000 cases a day. Hong Kong had only report 100 cases as of July 2. Taiwan confirmed nine deaths from complications of HFMD this year and 272 cases. Singapore reported 15,776 cases as of July 2 but indicates the numbers seem to be decreasing. An increase in surveillance for HFMD has been reported in other countries in the Western Pacific as well.
You can contract HFMD from direct contact with secretions from the nose and throat, saliva, open blisters, or the feces of a person with HFMD. You can help prevent the spread of HFMD by frequent hand washing, disinfect items and surfaces that become contaminated, and avoid kissing and hugging those infected. Once a person has HFMD, immunity is established but only for the strain of the enterovirus caught. Most of the current outbreaks in Asia are caused by enterovirus 71 (EV71). Rare cases are fatal, most people recover without medical treatment.
Those affected may initially lose their appetite, have a mild fever, sore throat, and just not feel well. Painful sores may develop in the mouth. A non-itching rash including blisters usually develops on the hands, feet, and occasionally the buttocks.
As with other viral infections manage fever and pain symptoms with acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Offer many fluids to prevent dehydration. Mouth sprays or Mouthwashes may help to numb the pain and discomfort
Those traveling to countries that are reporting outbreaks should double their efforts to practice good hygiene. Only drink properly bottled beverages including water and never use ice. Be sure to wash your hands before you eat, after coughing, sneezing, and toileting. You may want to take along your own hand sanitizer as well. Make sure all of your meals are hot and fully cooked. Do not eat raw fruits and vegetables unless you can wash them and peel them yourself. Because children under age 10 are more susceptible to the disease adults should help them with preventative measures.
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