Question
The peak season for hand, foot, and mouth disease is approaching, and we haven’t been out much lately. The other day, my daughter kept asking to go to the bubble pool, so I had to take her. Yesterday, I noticed she had some symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease. After seeing a doctor, it was confirmed that she indeed had the disease. What should I do?
Answer
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by a viral infection. Once a child is diagnosed with the disease, oral antiviral medication should be administered under a doctor’s guidance. In severe cases, intravenous fluid therapy can be combined. The usual course of the disease lasts about one week to 10 days. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water, maintain warmth, and avoid catching a cold. Allow your child to consume some vegetables and fruits as well as high-protein foods such as eggs and milk.