Question
Why do fingernails fall off after a child fully recovers from hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Answer
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a skin and mucous membrane disorder caused by enterovirus infection, often accompanied by fever and the appearance of vesicular rashes on the hands, feet, and oral cavity. After recovery, fingernails may sometimes fall off due to a temporary interruption in nail growth caused by viral infection. Severe hand, foot, and mouth disease may lead to complications such as viral myocarditis. During the recovery period, maintaining personal hygiene and avoiding secondary infections can alleviate discomfort.