Question
What viruses cause hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Answer
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is primarily caused by enteroviruses, with Coxsackievirus A and B groups and Echoviruses being common pathogens. These viruses are transmitted through the fecal-oral route and may also spread through contact with contaminated items or through droplets. Symptoms include fever, oral ulcers, and rashes on the hands, feet, and buttocks. There is no specific medication for treatment at present; mainly supportive therapy and symptomatic treatment are adopted. Traditional Chinese medicine treatment may also help alleviate symptoms and shorten the course of the disease. If a child is diagnosed with hand, foot, and mouth disease, parents should cooperate with the doctor for active treatment and pay attention to their child’s balanced diet.