Patient's question:
Last summer, I had a case of herpangina. I heard that once you've had this disease, you won't get hand, foot, and mouth disease. Is there any truth to that?Doctor's answer:
Having herpangina can also lead to hand, foot, and mouth disease. Children with hand, foot, and mouth disease have a certain level of immunity because, after the virus mutates, some components remain the same. The antibodies produced during previous infections can provide some cross-immunity against the mutated virus. Therefore, children with hand, foot, and mouth disease may still contract it again, but their resistance will be higher than that of children who have never had this condition. It's important to pay attention to a light diet and avoid spicy and irritating foods. Moderate exercise can also help boost the child's immunity.