Question
Do I need to take medicine for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
Answer
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is caused by enteroviruses. It is highly contagious, so isolation is necessary, especially to prevent contact with other young children at home; adults generally have no serious problems. The most typical symptom is the appearance of rashes on the hands, feet, and mouth. Severe cases can lead to serious symptoms affecting the nervous, respiratory, and circulatory systems, in which case hospitalization may be required. If only rashes appear and there are no other obvious discomforts, home rest will suffice.