How to Cope with Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in Children

Question

A young child has been diagnosed with hand, foot, and mouth disease, and the family is worried. The child is hospitalized and experiencing symptoms such as crying, oral ulcers, and high fever. The family wants to know when the child can recover and what they should pay attention to during the care process.

Answer

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is an infectious disease caused by enteroviruses, primarily affecting children under the age of five. The disease can lead to blisters on the hands, feet, and mouth, and in rare cases, may trigger complications such as myocarditis, pulmonary edema, and aseptic meningitis. Most cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease are mild, mainly presenting with fever and rashes or blisters, with most patients able to recover spontaneously. During the care process, it is important to cultivate good hygiene habits such as washing hands before meals and after using the toilet, avoiding drinking untreated water, not consuming raw or cold foods, and keeping clothing and bedding clean as well as ensuring good ventilation indoors.