Coxsackie, commonly known as Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD), is a very common childhood illness. It is most often seen in infants, toddlers and young children, although it can affect people of any age. Most cases of HFMD are self-limited and resolve naturally in 7-10 days.
Signs/symptoms:
Common signs and symptoms include, but are not limited to:
•Fever
•Fussiness
•Sore throat/mouth sores
•Blister-like Rash – primarily on hands, feet, around mouth and on buttocks, but may include other areas of the body as well
Please note, symptoms may develop over time. The rash with HFMD often spreads before resolving.
Contagiousness:
HFMD spreads through contact with infected individuals. It is spread through airborne droplets, when a person coughs or sneezes, and saliva. It also is spread through contact with fluid in the blisters.
Management:
Management of HFMD is primarily supportive, as there is no specific treatment.
• Analgesics/antipyretics such as Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Advil (Ibuprofen) may help reduce the discomfort of a sore throat and/or sore muscles. Acetaminophen can be given every 4 hours as needed and Ibuprofen every 6 hours as needed. Keep in mind that fevers are not harmful! Unless your child is uncomfortable, you do not need to give Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen for fever reduction.
• Fluids are very important. Dehydration is one of the most common risks of HFMD, as many children do not want to drink due to the sore throat.
• Bland diet helps promote food intake. Spicy or acidic food can irritate the sores. We typically do not worry if children are not eating, so long as they’re drinking ok
Prevention:
• Hand washing - Frequent and thorough hand washing can help reduce the risk of any infection, including HFMD. Encouraging children to limit touching their face, mouth or nose also helps reduce the development and spread of HFMD.
• Disinfectants - Frequent cleaning of surfaces with antibacterial and antiviral non-toxic products helps reduce the risk of developing or spreading most When to call our office
If your child is lethargic, refusing to drink or not urinating at least every 8 hours, call our office.
Return to School:
Most schools allow children to return once their fever free for 24 hours without antipyretics, feel well enough to participate in class, and once the sores have popped and crusted over. If you’re unsure if your child is able to return to school, feel free to call our office!
Take away:
HFMD is very common, most children will get it at least once. It’s typically harmless and self limited.