Journal 7: Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

HFMD is a common illness of infants and children. It is characterized by fever, sores in the mouth, and a rash with blisters.The spread of the disease can occur through direct contact with nasal discharge, saliva, feces, and fluid from the blisters. It can also spread indirectly through contact with toys, books, eating utensils, towels, and other articles used by an infected individual. The infection is spread most easily when people are feeling ill and sores are present in the mouth, but the virus can be spread for several weeks after that.The symptoms of HFMD are: fever 101F-103F, malaise, sore throat, painful oral lesions, non-itchy body rash - followed by sores with blisters on palms of hands and soles of feet, mouth ulcers and sores or blisters may be present on the buttocks of small children and infants. Actually, there is no specific treatment for HFMD. However, individual symptoms such as fever, lameness and pain from the sores, may be eased with the use of medication. HFMD is a viral disease that has to run its course, so that is why many doctors do not issue medicine for this illness, unless the infection is severe.To prevent the risk of contracting HFMD, I think we should practise good general hygiene. Wash your hands immediately after contact with the infected person and before handling food. Prevent others from contact with books, eating utensils, towels, clothes and other personal items used by the infected person.