Question
The recent outbreak of hand, foot, and mouth disease has been severe, and parents are concerned about how to protect their four-year-old children from viral infection. What measures should be taken to prevent hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Answer
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common infectious disease among infants and young children, caused by various enteroviruses, with EV71 being one of the common pathogens. The disease occurs throughout the year, with higher incidence rates particularly between May and July. Hand, foot, and mouth disease is primarily transmitted through contact with the feces, vesicle fluid, respiratory secretions (such as sneezing droplets), and contaminated objects like hands, towels, toys, and utensils. Although there is no specific vaccine for hand, foot, and mouth disease yet, early detection and treatment can effectively prevent and control the illness. It is recommended that parents strengthen personal and children’s hygiene habits, such as frequent hand washing, regular cleaning and disinfection of the home environment, and avoiding taking children to crowded public places to reduce the risk of infection.