Question
Is a lumbar puncture examination necessary upon discharge from the hospital after recovering from hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Answer
A lumbar puncture examination may not be necessary after recovery from hand, foot, and mouth disease. Although certain strains of the virus can lead to complications such as aseptic meningitis, hospitals may perform a lumbar puncture to differentiate and confirm bacterial meningitis. However, if the child has recovered after treatment, a lumbar puncture may not be necessary. Parents should seek timely medical treatment for their child when they contract hand, foot, and mouth disease and avoid blindly using advertised drugs. They should use the correct medication. At the same time, parents should also provide sufficient care and attention to their child and strive to help them recover from the disease in a timely manner.