Question
Is hand, foot, and mouth disease contagious to other children? For example, if a 20-month-old baby is diagnosed with hand, foot, and mouth disease, are the 29-month-old and 5-month-old babies playing with them also at risk of infection?
Answer
Yes, hand, foot, and mouth disease is contagious. This illness is caused by enteroviruses that can lead to blisters on the hands, feet, and mouth, and in rare cases may trigger serious complications such as myocarditis, pulmonary edema, and aseptic meningitis. The transmission routes are diverse, and infants and children are generally susceptible to infection. Therefore, maintaining personal hygiene for children, family health, and nurseries is crucial for preventing the spread of the disease. It is recommended to wash hands frequently, keep the environment clean, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor’s guidance. Additionally, providing children with vitamin-rich juices can help enhance immunity and prevent diarrhea, hoping that the child can recover soon.