Questions
How long does it usually take for the red spots to disappear in hand, foot, and mouth disease? What should I be aware of regarding my child’s diet? My child is nearly 19 months old and has contracted hand, foot, and mouth disease. It’s now the second day. How should I take care of them, and when can I expect recovery?
Answers
Summer and autumn are peak seasons for hand, foot, and mouth disease in children. Kindergartens are the main source of the disease, so isolation measures should be taken. Hand, foot, and mouth disease is an acute infectious disease caused by enterovirus, primarily presenting as fever and rashes on the mouth, hands, and feet. It is more common in children under 4 years old. The red spots typically disappear on their own within a week. In terms of diet, it is recommended to provide soft or semi-liquid foods that are easy to chew and digest for the child to avoid over-stimulating oral ulcers. Additionally, drinking plenty of water helps maintain hydration balance. For a 19-month-old child, it is important to closely monitor their temperature changes and rash conditions while maintaining good hygiene habits to prevent cross-infection. Hand, foot, and mouth disease usually heals within 1-2 weeks; the specific recovery time varies depending on individual differences. If symptoms worsen or persist for a longer period, it is advisable to consult a doctor for further evaluation and treatment. If hand, foot, and mouth disease is not treated promptly, it may lead to complications such as encephalitis, pneumonia, and myocarditis; therefore, timely medical treatment is crucial.