17/11/2025
Reposting: Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) Awareness:
HFMD cases are on the rise this last quarter of the year. Reposting this infographic to better understand this disease.
☑️ It is most commonly caused by Coxsackievirus A16 leading to large outbreaks, Enterovirus 71 and Echoviruses; some cases are also caused by Coxsackievirus A 5, 6, 7, 9, and 10; and coxsackie B viruses. Hence, may recur repeatedly since this disease is caused by several types and strains of viruses.
☑️ It is a common viral illness spread through
fecal-oral and respiratory routes, and may also be spread via airborne transmission.
☑️Virus can be transmitted vertically prenatally or in the peripartum period, or, possibly, via breastfeeding.
☑️The virus can survive on environmental surfaces, permitting transmission via fomites. (Fomites: non living objects like toys/ phones/ clothes) Therefore can spread through contact with contaminated objects.
☑️ The virus also can frequently be isolated from water sources and sewage and can survive for months in wet soil.
☑️Transmission occurs within families (≥50% risk of spread to nonimmune household contacts), daycare centers, playgrounds, summer camps, orphanages, and hospital nurseries.
☑️ It commonly affects (as the name implies), the mouth, hands and feet, rashes can also be seen in the buttocks.
☑️ It is commonly seen in children age 5 and below, but can definitely affect kids of all ages and adults as well.
☑️ The rashes usually disappear within 7 days.
☑️ There is No need to give antibiotics because this is a VIRAL infection, unless there is evidence of bacterial superinfection.
☑️ The treatment of HFMD is supportive.
1. Anti histamine for itch
2. Antipyretics and Analgesics for fever and pain
3. Oral sprays/creams to lessen the pain caused by the ulcers. Oral anti-fungals have NO ROLE in the treatment of the oral sores caused by this disease.
4. Oral antivirals are not necessary. There is no antiviral agent specific for the etiologic agents as of the moment.
4. Vitamins and supplements to boost the immune system.
5. Increased fluid intake to avoid dehydration.
☑️ There is currently NO available Vaccine for this disease but it can be prevented through proper hand washing, avoiding close contact with infected people, Cleaning and Disinfecting toys and surfaces and eating well balanced and nutritious meals.
☑️ If you are suspecting that your child has HFMD, seek your Pediatrician's advise.
___________
Source: Nelson’s Textbook of Pediatrics