Question
My child has been running a fever since two days ago, with temperatures above 38 degrees. After taking medication, the fever recurs. There are blisters in the mouth, excessive drooling, and several blisters on the tips of the toes. The doctor advised to observe for a while. Today, the temperature is around 37.3 degrees. Is my child suffering from Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease? How should I treat it?
Answer
If there are blisters in the mouth, it is likely Herpangina. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is an infectious disease caused by enteroviruses. There are over 20 types of enteroviruses that can cause Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, including Coxsackievirus A16 and Enterovirus 71 as the most common types. It most often occurs in children under 5 years old. Symptoms include mouth pain, loss of appetite, low-grade fever, small blisters or ulcers on the hands, feet, mouth, and other parts. Oral ulcers are usually accompanied by no rash in other areas and no fever. Please continue to monitor your child’s temperature changes and consult with a doctor for more detailed treatment advice.