General Information About Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a contagious disease caused by the Coxsackievirus from the group of intestinal viruses (enteroviruses), progressing with mild fever and skin rashes in characteristic areas in young children.
It is very common, especially in daycares and kindergartens. It spreads rapidly through direct contact with the saliva, nasal secretions, feces (soiled diapers), and the fluid inside the blisters of children carrying the virus.
A few days after fever, sore throat, and loss of appetite; painful aphthous-like sores appear inside the mouth and on the buccal mucosa. Simultaneously, red, pimple-like rashes appear on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.
Yes. 3-4 weeks after the disease has completely healed, peeling or complete loss of fingernails and toenails can be seen due to a temporary pause created by the virus in the nail matrix; new, healthy nails will grow in their place.
A clinical examination of the child by a physician and observing that the rashes are localized only around the hands, feet, and mouth is sufficient for diagnosis. Laboratory testing is generally not required.
Because it is a viral disease, antibiotics are not given. The disease resolves on its own (within 7-10 days). Because the child cannot eat due to the sores in their mouth, pain-relieving sprays and fever-reducing syrups are used.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
