What Are the Symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Question

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is highly contagious, with most patients in hospitals seeking treatment due to this illness. What symptoms might a child experience when infected with hand, foot, and mouth disease?

Answer

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease primarily affects children, especially those under four years old, with no significant gender differences. It is most prevalent during the spring and autumn seasons. The disease is highly contagious, with the virus able to spread through saliva droplets in the air, making it common in kindergartens or elementary schools during outbreaks. Initial symptoms are usually mild and may include low-grade fever, fatigue, headache, coughing, runny nose, and decreased appetite. Subsequently, painful small blisters may appear on the cheeks, gums, hard palate, tongue, lips, and throat. It is advised that parents closely monitor their child’s changes and seek medical assistance when necessary.