Hand-Foot Mouth Disease
Hand, Foot and Mouth disease (HFM) is a viral infection characterized by a distinctive rash and is a different infection from the hoof and mouth disease seen in cattle. The rash begins as flat, red spots and then develops into small blisters classically found on the palms, on the soles, and between the fingers or toes. Sometimes they may also occur on the buttocks or genital area. The lesions in the mouth are shallow ulcers and may be painful. Other symptoms include fever, decreased activity and decreased appetite. Children typically run fever for one to three days, and symptoms generally resolve in one week.
Hand Foot and Mouth disease usually occurs in young children during the summer months. It is highly contagious with an incubation period of three to seven days. Transmission occurs by contact with contaminated fluids such as stool or respiratory secretions. Diagnosis is made by physical examination, and lab testing usually is not necessary. Infections are generally self-limited with the most common complication being dehydration. Treatment is symptom-based and includes controlling fever and discomfort and encouraging fluids to prevent dehydration. You can prevent spread of infection by careful hand washing and good hygiene habits.