Question
Under what circumstances can hand, foot, and mouth disease be transmitted to others?
Answer
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is mainly transmitted through direct contact with a patient’s saliva, mucus, feces, or respiratory secretions. The disease is most contagious during the few days before symptoms appear and up to a week after symptoms appear. Additionally, the virus can be spread through contaminated droplets (such as from coughing or sneezing) and by touching surfaces that have been contaminated. Therefore, maintaining good personal hygiene habits, such as washing hands, avoiding close contact with patients, and keeping the environment clean, can help prevent the spread of hand, foot, and mouth disease.