How to Treat and Care for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Question

“How should a 4-year-old boy with hand, foot, and mouth disease be treated and cared for?”

Answer

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common childhood infectious disease caused by enteroviruses. The main symptoms include rashes on the hands, feet, mouth, and buttocks, accompanied by fever. Most cases can heal on their own, with only a few developing complications. Treatment primarily involves antiviral medications such as antiviral oral liquids and Platycodon grandiflorus infusion, and antibiotics may be used during the infection. Diet should consist of easily digestible, light, and mild foods, with an abundance of warm water. Preventive measures include isolating the child, strengthening the health care of infants and young children to reduce the chance of transmission. Additionally, maintain good indoor air circulation and appropriate temperature.