(STLMoms) – If your child has ever had it, you likely remember. It’s Hand, Foot and Mouth disease. And it’s floating around the St. Louis area.
Pedatrician Dr. Karla Keaney with Esse Health talks about the virus.
● A viral infection (often caused by the coxsackie virus) that can cause painful sores to the mouth and a blister-like rash on the hands, feet, buttocks, and sometimes genitalia
WHO CAN GET THIS INFECTION? CAN IT AFFECT MY CHILDREN?
● Anyone can get this BUT children <5yo are more likely to develop symptoms
● This virus can occur anytime of year but most often occurs in the Summer or Fall. With the start of the school year, this might be something prevalent in your community.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD HAS THIS INFECTION?
● The main symptoms are fever and the rash (often blisters) on the hands, feet, buttocks, and occasionally genitalia, along with mouth sores. These are often painful to touch but don`t itch. You may notice decreased appetite due to the mouth sores.
● Though there are tests to confirm the diagnosis, these are usually NOT necessary. Your doctor will be able to tell you if your child has this by discussing the symptoms and doing an exam.
WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT THIS?
HOW SERIOUS IS HFMD?
● It`s usually mild, but a common complication is dehydration as the mouth sores are painful; it`s important to watch for this and encourage fluids.
IS THERE A TREATMENT AVAILABLE?
● Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment for HFMD, but the virus usually resolves within a few days (~2-3 days) and full recovery in 1 wk or so.
