Question
My baby has had a cold for 8 days. Initially, it was just fever, but after getting shots and medication, the fever subsided. Two days later, a sore appeared in the throat, and the fever returned. After five days of intravenous drip treatment, the fever still recurs. The gums are a bit red and swollen. Is this Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
Answer
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common disease in infants and children. It is an infectious disease caused by enteroviruses, characterized by rashes or red papules on the hands, feet, buttocks, surrounded by red halos. The rash is painless, itchy, non-scabbing, and does not leave scars. Most children also have sores in their mouths that are painful, with drooling and refusal to eat, accompanied by fever. It is essential to seek medical treatment and follow the doctor’s instructions for medication and bed rest. Chinese patent medicines can be taken if necessary. Pay attention to oral and skin hygiene; clean the mouth with saline solution daily. Also, take care to prevent the patient from scratching at the skin rashes to avoid breaking them and causing infection.