Question

Can Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease be transmitted to adults?

Answer

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is an infectious disease caused by enteroviruses that commonly affects children under the age of 5. It can lead to blisters on the hands, feet, and mouth, and in very rare cases, may trigger complications such as myocarditis, pulmonary edema, and aseptic meningitis. Adults typically have immunity due to previous explicit or crypto- infections and rarely become ill. However, if a child in the household is infected with Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, adults should still be vigilant about precautions to prevent infection.