Question
How to Prevent Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
Answer
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a contagious disease caused by viral infection, primarily affecting the hands, feet, and mouth with the appearance of blisters and rashes. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as fever and fatigue. This condition is more common in children, especially school-aged children, as they are more likely to come into contact with the virus and spread it to others. To prevent hand, foot, and mouth disease, the following measures can be taken:
- Maintain good personal hygiene habits, including frequent hand washing, especially before touching food or the mouth, and after using the toilet.
- Keep the environment clean by regularly cleaning and disinfecting commonly touched items and surfaces.
- Educate children to avoid close contact with sick children and to stay at home to rest when they are ill.
- Maintain a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and exercise moderately to boost immunity.
- Consider vaccination against hand, foot, and mouth disease, which can provide effective protection, especially for children in high-risk age groups. If a child has contracted hand, foot, and mouth disease, they should avoid going to school to prevent further spread of the virus. In terms of treatment, doctors can prescribe medication to alleviate symptoms, but there is no specific drug available to cure this virus. Note that the hand, foot, and mouth disease vaccine may not be available in all areas, and specific information should be consulted with local healthcare providers.