Hand, foot, and mouth disease, or HFMD, causes the eruption of painful sores on the tongue, gums, and inside the cheeks of young children. A skin rash is also visible on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, sometimes with fluid-filled vesicles. The rash may involve the buttocks and genitals and may be mistaken for chickenpox or roseola. Some children exhibit a skin rash alone, others may only have mouth sores.
Foot and mouth, or hoof and mouth disease is a separate illness affecting livestock such as cows, pigs, and sheep. It is caused by a virus that is not transmittable to humans. Conversely, hand, foot, and mouth disease cannot be contracted by or from animals.
HFMD May Be Caused by Different Pathogens
Any member of the enterovirus group could cause HFMD. In the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most common cause of HFMD is coxsackievirus A16, and the illness is generally mild. Since 1997, outbreaks of HFMD caused by enterovirus 71, which has a higher rate of neurological complications, have been reported in Asia and Australia. Children exposed to a virus that causes HFMD develop immunity to that virus, but could become ill again from exposure to another virus.
Adults May be Infected and Not Have Symptoms
Although commonly thought of as a disease of childhood, adults can be infected and even be contagious, while having no signs of illness. Children under the age of 10 are most likely to become sick, and are most contagious during the first week, spreading the virus through direct contact with secretions in the nose and throat, saliva, blisters, and feces. The virus can still be excreted and spread to others, however, even weeks after all symptoms of illness are gone. Careful, frequent handwashing and not sharing cups or utensils can prevent the spread of disease, as does washing contaminated surfaces and toys. There is currently no vaccine against HFMD. In regions where the climate is not extreme, summer and autumn months typically see more frequent infections in children.
Treatment for HFMD is Centered on Symptoms
The disease is self-limiting, with symptoms resolving in seven to 10 days, according to the CDC. Pain in the mouth and throat may cause children to refuse oral fluids. Numbing sprays and pain relievers can help prevent dehydration. Children may also prefer popsicles or cold drinks to warm soups and teas. Fever helps children rest and fights infection, but a fever over 102 degrees Fahrenheit may be medicated if the child is uncomfortable. Children should never receive aspirin to treat symptoms of viral infection, to avoid the possibility of a serious complication known as Reyes Syndrome.
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a highly contagious yet mild illness affecting mostly young children. Not everyone who is infected has symptoms. The coxackievirus is responsible for most cases of HFMD in the United States, however, other related viruses may also cause the disorder.
Reference:
CDC, "Hand, Foot, & Mouth Disease (HFMD)", accessed May 30, 2010
Mary Earhart - Mary Earhart, RN, BSN, is a Licensed Midwife. She has written articles for professional journals and grants for non-profit agencies as ...
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