Question
A 5-year-old child has a slight rash on the hands, feet, and a more severe rash on the knees and thighs, without fever. After a week of medication treatment, the rash has completely subsided. How long after recovery can the child play with other children without transmitting the disease?
Answer
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is an infectious disease caused by enteroviruses, primarily affecting children under five years old. It usually manifests as blisters on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth. Virological shedding in stool can last for 3 to 5 weeks, while pharyngeal shedding lasts about 1 to 2 weeks, during which time it is contagious. Therefore, it is generally recommended to isolate the child until 1 to 2 weeks after recovery. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease can have a significant impact on child health, so if a child shows related symptoms, they should be taken to a regular hospital for immediate medical attention. Paying attention to the child’s care in daily life is also important. It is suggested to maintain a balanced diet to help the child recover.