Hand, foot And Mouth Disease

Question 1

What virus usually causes Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Answer 1

It is usually caused by the Coxsackie virus.

Question 2

How is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease transmitted?

Answer 2

It is transmitted through airborne droplets (cough, sneeze), contact with blister fluid, and in faeces.

Question 3

What is the incubation period for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Answer 3

The incubation period is 3 to 5 days.

Question 4

How long is someone with Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease infectious?

Answer 4

They are infectious until the spots and mouth ulcers have gone, but the virus can linger in faeces for a few more weeks.

Question 5

How long does Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease last?

Answer 5

The disease is usually self-limiting and lasts 7 to 10 days.

Question 6

Where do outbreaks of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease tend to occur?

Answer 6

Outbreaks commonly occur in nurseries and schools.

Question 7

Who is most commonly affected by Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Answer 7

It is most common in children under 10 years old.

Question 8

What are the prodromal symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Answer 8

Prodromal symptoms include fever, followed by a sore throat.

Question 9

What happens after the sore throat in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Answer 9

Spots appear inside the mouth, which turn into ulcers. They can also appear on the lips or around the mouth, leading to a loss of appetite.

Question 10

What does the rash of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease look like?

Answer 10

Red spots (pink, brown, or darker than surrounding skin) develop on the palms and soles, and may also appear on the buttocks, legs, and genitals.

Question 11

Are the spots in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease itchy?

Answer 11

The spots are not itchy but can be sore.

Question 12

What happens to the spots in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Answer 12

The spots can turn into blisters, which are grey or lighter than the surrounding skin.

Question 13

Is there a cure for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Answer 13

No, Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is self-limiting, and treatment is symptomatic.

Question 14

How is mild Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease managed?

Answer 14

If symptoms are mild, no specific treatment is required.

Question 15

How can fever and aches be managed in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Answer 15

Use paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage fever and aches.

Question 16

What can help with a sore mouth in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Answer 16

Lidocaine gel, Benzydamine mouthwash (Difflam®) for those 12 years and older, or Benzydamine spray (5 years and older), and Choline salicylate gel (Bonjela®) for those 16 years and older. Warm salty mouthwash can also help if the child is old enough to spit it out.

Question 17

How can you prevent the spread of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Answer 17

Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water, especially after using the toilet, handling nappies, or tissues. Use tissues when sneezing, dispose of them properly, and cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

Question 18

What precautions should be taken with clothing, food, and rest for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Answer 18

Wash bedding and clothing on a hot cycle, avoid sharing cutlery, cups, towels, or bedding. Keep the person cool with loose cotton clothing, offer soft foods, and avoid acidic, hot, or spicy foods. Rest is important, and keep away from school/work until they feel better.