Question
With the recent outbreak of hand, foot, and mouth disease in the community causing public concern, disinfection measures have been intensified. How should parents identify if their child’s fever and other symptoms are indicative of the incubation period of hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Answer
The incubation period of hand, foot, and mouth disease may be accompanied by symptoms such as fever, cough, nasal congestion, headache, and diarrhea. Subsequently, rashes or blisters may appear on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, around the mouth, and anus. It is recommended that parents strengthen their child’s personal hygiene and avoid contact with sick children. If a child continues to have a fever, even without visible rashes, medical examination for hand, foot, and mouth disease antibodies should be sought to prevent EV71 virus infection.