Question
Could a child experiencing symptoms like fever, mouth ulcers, and red rashes on their hands and feet be suffering from hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Answer
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is an infectious illness caused by enteroviruses, with common symptoms including mouth ulcers, red rashes on the hands and feet, low-grade fever, and abdominal pain. These symptoms typically appear within 3 to 5 days after infection. As the virus spreads through fecal-oral routes, preventive measures include maintaining good personal hygiene and environmental cleanliness. If you suspect your child has contracted hand, foot, and mouth disease, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.