Question
My baby has been crying a lot recently. We suspect he might have hand, foot, and mouth disease. Is a general enterovirus positive test a sign of hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Answer
A general enterovirus positive test is considered a possible sign of hand, foot, and mouth disease, which is common in infants and young children. It is closely related to the child’s hygiene habits and primarily manifests as blisters on the hands, feet, and mouth, along with symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and cough. Most cases are curable; with active treatment, they can be completely healed. However, a few children may develop serious complications such as viral pneumonia or encephalitis. Attention should be paid to this possibility, and treatment should be standardized.