Question

My son has contracted Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease. What is the cause? We’re not sure what to do at home, and he keeps running a fever, which is especially uncomfortable. What is the source of infection? He always washes his hands before school, but suddenly got it. What should we do at home? What medication is effective?

Answer

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is a condition caused by enteroviruses that can be transmitted through close contact between the digestive and respiratory tracts. There is currently no specific medication for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, and treatment mainly focuses on symptomatic relief. Parents should pay attention to maintaining good indoor ventilation, bathing the child, washing clothes, and trimming nails. Preventing Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease primarily involves maintaining hygiene, washing hands frequently, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoiding picky eating and snacking, and eating more vegetables and fruits. Here are some suggestions:

  1. Maintain hand hygiene: Encourage your child to wash their hands often, especially before touching food or others.
  2. Avoid contact with sources of infection: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease can be transmitted through close contact with patients or by touching infected sources (such as saliva or feces). Therefore, avoid close contact with individuals who have Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease and maintain good personal hygiene habits.
  3. Diet adjustment: Provide adequate fluids for your child to drink plenty of water. Avoid giving them picky eating habits or snacking; instead, encourage them to eat more vegetables and fruits to boost their immune system. Please note that these suggestions are for reference only. If your child’s symptoms are severe or persist for a long time, please consult a doctor promptly.