Ask-A-Doc, August

Posted 10/07/19 (Mon)

What is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease? 

Answer from Dr. Jackie Quisno

Q: What is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease? Is it the same as hoof and mouth?

A: Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral illness that usually affects infants and children younger than 5 years old. 

Hand, foot, and mouth disease sometimes occurs in adults, but younger patients present the most symptoms. Hand, Foot, and Mouth is different from hoof-and-mouth, which only affects livestock and can’t be transferred to humans. 

Symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease include fever, painful blister-like sores in the mouth, and a skin rash that can last five to seven days. 

Risk of contracting the disease can be lowered by thorough cleaning including frequent hand washing, disinfecting surfaces like doorknobs and toys, and avoiding contact like hugging, kissing, and sharing utensils. 

While there’s no specific treatment, over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers can alleviate some of the symptoms. The mouth sores may make it painful, but drinking liquids is important to stay hydrated. If a person experience hand, foot, and mouth disease cannot swallow enough liquids, a lack of hydration may become a concern. In such cases, a medical professional should be contacted immediately.

If you have concerns about hand, foot, and mouth disease or other common ailments, please make an appointment to be seen by CFM providers! 

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