Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Complications

Question

What are the complications caused by hand, foot, and mouth disease?

Answer

The EV71 virus that causes hand, foot, and mouth disease can affect the nervous system, leading to a range of severe symptoms. Neurological viral reactions may occur. If the patient’s constitution is weak, it may lead to respiratory failure. In rare cases, complications such as aseptic or viral meningitis can occur, with symptoms including fever, headache, neck stiffness, or back pain. Other common complications include encephalitis or meningitis, pneumonia, pulmonary edema, flaccid paralysis resembling polio, and allergic purpura.