Cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) are increasing across the United States, particularly affecting young children. Since late August 2023, various outbreaks have been reported, prompting health experts to emphasize the need for awareness and preventive measures. While the illness typically presents mild symptoms, its contagious nature warrants attention from parents and caregivers.
HFMD is primarily a viral infection commonly seen in children under the age of five, although adults can contract it as well. The disease is caused by viruses such as coxsackievirus A16 and enterovirus, resulting in symptoms that include fever, a rash on the hands and feet, painful mouth sores, and a sore throat. Dr. E. Caroline McGowan, a board-certified pediatrician with UCR Health and assistant clinical professor at the UC Riverside School of Medicine, explains the nature of HFMD and what parents should know.
Understanding the Severity of HFMD
Despite its alarming name, HFMD is usually a mild illness. Most children recover without complications. Dr. McGowan notes that while the illness is primarily characterized by cold-like symptoms, the classic rash often appears as small blisters on the palms, soles, and around the mouth. For healthy children, treatment typically involves supportive care, such as rest and hydration, with medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) to alleviate discomfort.
Serious complications are rare, but parents should be vigilant for warning signs. Symptoms that require immediate medical attention include extreme weakness, difficulty waking, trouble breathing, pale skin, or a rapid heart rate. If any of these signs are observed, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional promptly.
Symptoms and Management Strategies
HFMD symptoms generally begin with mild cold-like signs, including a runny nose, low-grade fever, and irritability. These symptoms are often followed by the characteristic rash and mouth sores, which can make eating and drinking painful, increasing the risk of dehydration. Dr. McGowan advises that keeping children hydrated is essential. Using cool-mist humidifiers can help with congestion, while soft, cold foods like smoothies and yogurt may ease discomfort for children suffering from mouth sores.
Parents should encourage small, frequent sips of water or oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte. If a child refuses to bear weight due to pain from the rash, a pediatrician’s evaluation is recommended.
Symptoms can vary significantly; some children may experience mild illness with rashes lasting about seven to ten days, while others might have more extensive rashes that take two to three weeks to resolve. HFMD predominantly affects children under five, but older children and adults can also contract the virus.
Transmission and Prevention of HFMD
HFMD spreads rapidly through close contact. The viruses involved can be found in respiratory droplets from saliva and mucus, stool, and the fluid from blisters. To mitigate the spread, caregivers are encouraged to disinfect toys and common areas regularly, promote frequent handwashing, and avoid sharing utensils. However, controlling transmission can be challenging, especially among young children who often engage in behaviors like drooling and putting objects in their mouths.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children diagnosed with HFMD do not need to remain at home until all symptoms have resolved. They can return to school or childcare once they have been fever-free for 24 hours without medication and are comfortable enough to resume normal activities. Mild lingering symptoms, such as a healing rash or a small cough, do not warrant exclusion from school.
The increase in HFMD cases is not unexpected, as the disease tends to follow seasonal patterns, peaking in late spring and summer. While heightened public awareness may amplify concern, Dr. McGowan emphasizes that HFMD is a common childhood illness, and seasonal spikes are typical. Outbreaks can occur easily in settings like daycares and playgrounds, but these exposures help build children’s immune systems over time.
In conclusion, while the rise in HFMD cases may cause concern among parents, understanding the nature of the disease, its symptoms, and preventive measures can help manage its impact effectively. Engaging in good hygiene practices remains essential to minimize the risk of transmission among children and within communities.
