Can My Child with Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Be Held by the Elderly?

Question

My child has hand, foot, and mouth disease. Can the elderly hold her? Can this disease be contagious?

Answer

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease does not transmit to adults. It is a group of diseases caused by the Enterovirus 71 (EV71) that is not commonly seen in adults and usually occurs in children under 12 years old. However, the disease can be spread through food, water sources, and contact. If a child is infected, adults may come into contact with the virus and transmit it to other children. I hope this answer is helpful.