Question

Patient Age: A newborn baby just over a month old. I’ve heard that May to July is the peak season for hand, foot, and mouth disease. How severe can it be for newborns? How can it be prevented?

Answer

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is an infectious disease commonly found in children, caused by various human enteroviruses. The disease primarily affects children under the age of 5, particularly those under 3 years old, and can occur throughout the year, with the highest incidence from April to September. After infection, patients usually present with fever, generally around 38°C. At the same time, rashes may appear on the hands, feet, and buttocks, or oral mucosal blisters may occur. Most cases can recover within 7 to 10 days with symptomatic treatment. In a few cases, especially those infected with EV71 virus, complications such as meningitis, encephalitis, poliomyelitis, and pulmonary edema may occur, which are serious and can lead to death or residual symptoms. To prevent hand, foot, and mouth disease, the following measures should be taken:

  1. Regular hand washing: Encourage family members and children to wash their hands frequently with soap and clean water, especially after touching objects that may carry the virus or after contact with others.
  2. Maintain environmental hygiene: Regularly clean and disinfect commonly used items and surfaces such as toys, door handles, and tables.
  3. Avoid close contact: Try to avoid close contact with patients, especially during the onset of the disease.
  4. Enhance immunity: Have a balanced diet, consume fresh vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins, and moderate exercise can help enhance immunity.
  5. Isolate patients: If someone in the family is infected with hand, foot, and mouth disease, they should be isolated to prevent transmission to others. If a child shows symptoms such as fever, oral ulcers, or rashes, it is important to seek medical attention promptly and inform the doctor of the relevant situation. The doctor will diagnose based on symptoms and signs and provide appropriate treatment recommendations. Understanding the prevention measures for hand, foot, and mouth disease is crucial for protecting a child’s health. I hope this information is helpful to you.