Hand, foot & mouth

We decided to take M to get some medical attention today. He hasn't been himself all weekend & has developed sores on his mouth & a rash on his bottom. It turns out he's got Hand, Foot & Mouth. And apparently the nurse had seen several cases of it today. I never knew much about this (apart from seeing an episode on Get Well Soon- Cbeebies) so thought I would share the information given to us today....

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a short lived illness mainly affecting children. It is not related to the disease with a similar name affecting cattle.

What causes it?

It is due to a virus infection. It is thought that a virus in the coxsackie group is responsible. Virus germs are tiny microscopic bugs that cause many of the common infections in children (other examples include chicken pox, German measles, mumps, etc.).

What are the symptoms?

Like many virus infections the illness often starts with a feeling of being unwell for a day or so. (We thought that M was coming down with the cold that we all had.) This might include a mild high temperature. After this a sore throat commonly occurs, quickly followed by small spots inside the mouth. Small spots also commonly appear on the hands and feet (and something's buttocks) but rarely affect the rest of the body. The spots are similar to chicken pox but are a lot smaller. Unlike chicken pox, they are not usually itchy but can be quite tender.

 

(M's spots on his mouth)

Is it serious?

No. The illness is usually mild and goes away within a week. The spots disappear. The child may be miserable because of a sore mouth for a few days. The high temperature may last a few days and may make the child feel unwell.

Is it infectious?

Yes. Like other virus infections it can be passed on. Sometimes small outbreaks occur in young children with close contacts eg in nurseries. Rarely, adults and older children may develop a mild form of the illness. The affected person will be infectious until the spots fade. The incubation period is anywhere between 2 and 10 days (that is it may take 2-10 days to develop symptoms after being exposed to an infected person).

Treatments

As it is a virus infection there is no specific treatment. Paracetamol should be given if there is a high temperature or soreness of the mouth. Drinks should be encouraged. Cool sloppy foods may be preferred for a day or so if the mouth is sore (eg. yogurts,ice cream etc.).

In summary, hand, foot and mouth disease is a virus infection mainly affecting children. It is usually mild and full recovery should be expected within a week.