Question
What are the initial symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease? How can we effectively prevent this disease?
Answer
The initial symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease may include those similar to upper respiratory infections, such as coughing, runny nose, and increased saliva. Some children may also experience nausea and vomiting. It is particularly noteworthy that patients may develop oval or diamond-shaped blisters on the back of their hands, feet, fingers (toes), surrounded by redness, with clear fluid inside the blisters. These blisters align with the skin creases. To prevent hand, foot, and mouth disease, it is recommended that parents and caregivers enhance children’s personal hygiene and maintain good cleaning habits. If a patient with hand, foot, and mouth disease is found, they should be isolated immediately to avoid close contact with others and reduce the risk of disease transmission.