How to Prevent Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Question

Recent cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease have resurfaced, causing great concern among parents, even leading some to avoid sending their children to kindergarten out of worry. How is hand, foot, and mouth disease primarily transmitted? What should be done for effective prevention?

Answer

Preventing hand, foot, and mouth disease starts with personal hygiene. Maintain oral cleanliness to avoid secondary bacterial infections by rinsing with warm water after each meal. Also, ensure good indoor air circulation, maintain appropriate temperatures, encourage children to drink plenty of plain water or cool drinks, and increase their intake of fresh vegetables and fruits. Regularly clean children’s toys and other commonly used items thoroughly. During outbreaks of hand, foot, and mouth disease, parents should minimize taking their children to crowded public places to reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, parents should pay attention to their children’s nutrition intake and rest, avoid excessive exposure to the sun, prevent overexertion, and thereby enhance the children’s resistance.