Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

(Vesicular Stomatitis With Exanthem)

Definition

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common illness in infants and children. It is characterized by fever, sores in the mouth, and a rash with blisters. It occurs in warmer months and is transmitted primarily between humans by direct contact with secretions from the nose and throat, saliva, fluid from blisters, or the feces of those who have HFMD.

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Causes

HFMD is caused by a virus from a group of viruses called enteroviruses.

Risk Factors

The following factors increase the risk of HFMD:

Age: children under 10 years old

Symptoms

Mild fever
Poor appetite
Malaise
Sore throat]]>
Painful sores in the mouth
Skin rash that does not itch, usually on the palms of hands and soles of feet

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include:

Throat swab
Stool specimen

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for HFMD. Treatment is focused on relieving fever, aches, and pain associated with the illness.

Prevention

To help reduce the risk of HFMD:

Wash your hands frequently, especially after diaper changes.
Clean contaminated surfaces with soap and water followed by a diluted solution of chlorine-containing bleach. (Mix about 1/4 cup of bleach with one gallon water.)
Avoid close contact with children with HFMD.

RESOURCES:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
http://www.cdc.gov/

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
http://www3.niaid.nih.gov/

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

Canadian Pediatric Society
http://www.cps.ca/

Public Health Agency of Canada
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/

References:

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php . Accessed February 28, 2007.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/revb/enterovirus/hfhf.htm . Accessed February 28, 2007.

Last reviewed November 2008 by ]]>David L. Horn, MD, FACP]]>

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.