Patient's question:
How long does it usually take for the red spots to disappear when someone has hand, foot, and mouth disease? What should I pay attention to regarding his diet now? My child is almost 19 months old and has hand, foot, and mouth disease. It's the second day, and I want to know how to take care of him and when he will recover.Doctor's answer:
Summer and autumn are peak seasons for hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in children. Kindergartens are the main sources of this disease and should implement isolation measures.Guidance: Hand, foot, and mouth disease is an acute infectious disease caused by enteroviruses, particularly Coxsackievirus. The main clinical manifestations include fever and rashes on the mouth, hands, and feet. It is more common in children under the age of 4. The peak transmission occurs in July and August.
The primary transmission routes are through respiratory droplets, contaminated toys, and unclean hands. It is highly contagious. When the blisters in the mouth rupture, they cause ulcers, which can be extremely painful and affect the child's appetite. If not treated promptly, it may lead to encephalitis, pneumonia, and myocarditis, potentially damaging vital organs.