Question
What medication should a 9-month-old baby take if they have hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Answer
Since hand, foot, and mouth disease is self-limiting, treatment mainly focuses on symptomatic management and enhanced care. The oral area can be wiped with diluted saltwater or rinsed to prevent secondary infection; the skin rash on the limbs and trunk can be treated with calamine lotion to relieve itching and prevent secondary infection. If necessary, consider taking oral antiviral medications such as Viral Liquid.