Question
A child experienced a low-grade fever of about 37.4 degrees in the early morning, decreased appetite, two small ulcers inside the lips, small red rashes on the knees, buttocks, and feet, without blisters forming. Are these symptoms indicative of hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Answer
The incubation period for hand, foot, and mouth disease is approximately 3 to 4 days, and mild cases can usually recover on their own. However, some patients may experience sudden symptoms, with about half of them having a fever. Rashes typically appear on the day of onset or the next day, becoming prominent within 1 to 2 days. Initially, they are rose-colored spots or macules, with some forming blisters within a day. If these symptoms occur, it is important to take the child to a medical facility for diagnosis. Children being treated at home should avoid contact with other children. Parents should promptly clean or disinfect the child’s clothing and properly dispose of their excrement. Mild cases do not require hospitalization and should be treated and rested at home to reduce the risk of cross-infection.