Infectious diseases are denominated as they result from the transmission of a virus, a fungus or a parasite. Foot-hand-mouth syndrome is one of the common diseases in children. Although it is benign, it is particularly infectious for the youngest and can lead to a decrease of energy as well as a particularly grumpy mood.
Very common during childhood, foot-hand-mouth syndrome deserves the full attention of parents, especially for those with young children.
The Foot-hand-mouth syndrome
Foot-hand-mouth syndrome is an infectious disease, most often caused by the Coxsackie virus, which is particularly virulent in newborns and people with weak immune systems. This disease is spread by direct contagion, from one individual to another, through the physical contact of unwashed hands in this case. Infection can also occur through saliva and stool. It can be transmitted indirectly by touching surfaces contaminated with faeces.
Its most visible consequences are blisters and wounds in the mouth, as well as rash on the hands and feet. This infectious disease can occur at any age, but children under 5 are more vulnerable. In most cases, the hand-foot-and-mouth syndrome is a benign infection, and presents no real danger. She disappears of herself after a few days.
Symptoms of foot-hand-mouth syndrome
It should be known that in the case of this disease, the symptoms develop only three to seven days after the contamination. This phase is an incubation period for the virus. The main symptoms that you may notice in your child are:
The disease foot hand mouth
- Fever
- A sudden lack of appetite
- A headache
- Sore throat
- The child shows some irritability
- Red and painful blisters in the mouth, more or less resembling canker sores.
- A rash, similar to red dots, in the hands and soles of the feet.
Fever and sore throat are often the first tell-tale symptoms of foot-hand-mouth syndrome, and most infectious diseases for that matter. Blisters and rash occur later, usually two days after the onset of fever.
Treatment and prevention
Good hygiene is the key to preventing foot-and-mouth syndrome. It is therefore essential to teach your children how to clean their hands. They must learn to do this after using the toilet and before eating. If your child is in a daycare, supervising staff must be alert, and ensure that he does not put objects in his mouth. For your home, regularly sanitize common areas, toys and any object that may carry the virus.
If someone has foot-to-mouth syndrome, their potential for contagion over others will be higher during the first week. In the case of contact with others, care must be taken to teach the little ones the basic actions to avoid the contagion of other children. They should avoid drinking or eating the same thing and containers as others, and wash their hands conscientiously.
To treat the disease, experts believes that there is not necessarily any treatment to follow, since the pimples usually disappear after 5 to 6 days. On the other hand, it is essential to pay attention to the symptoms to avoid applying harmful products on the blisters or to pierce them.
In case of doubt or complications (otitis), the expert strongly recommends a medical consultation.