Q: HFMD is a viral infection caused by a group
of enteroviruses. What are enteroviruses and how do they lead to HFMD? HFMD is usually caused by coxsackievirus A16, one of the most common viruses that lead to HFMD. Such cases are usually mild and have few complications. On the other hand, HFMD cases caused by enterovirus 71 often have more serious complications and may even be fatal. These viruses are easily spread from person to person. Q: What are the signs and symptoms of HFMD and do they vary between adults and children? If so, what signs and symptoms are more common among children? Common signs and symptoms include fever, sore throat, ulcers inside the mouth or on the sides of the tongue, rash (flat or raised red spots) or small blisters on palms of hands, soles of feet and sometimes buttocks, loss of appetite and lethargy. It is possible for HFMD-infected persons to not show any signs or symptoms, or only have the rashes or mouth ulcers without any fever. Q: Young children below five years old are more susceptible to HFMD. Why? Q: How long do these signs and symptoms usually last for? Q: HFMD was first identified in Singapore in 1972. Back then, there were only about 100 cases detected in three months. However, nearly 1,000 new cases have been reported each week since the start of March 2018. What has contributed to a spike in the incidence of HFMD? Q: The term “prolonged transmission” is often used in relation to HFMD. What does it refer to? Q: What should I do if I suspect
that my child has HFMD? Q: How is HFMD spread from person to person? Q: How is HFMD diagnosed? Q: What complications can arise from HFMD? Rare forms of HFMD may lead to serious complications like viral meningitis or encephalitis (infections of the brain and membranes around the brains). Q: There is no specific treatment for HFMD. What can parents do to manage HFMD in their children? Q: What can adults do to manage HFMD if they contract it? Q: How long does the HFMD virus typically stay in the body? For example, we read that the virus can stay in a person’s stools for several months even after the symptoms have passed. In addition, it is possible for you to be infected with HFMD and still not show any symptoms, which is why it is important for you to practise good hygiene to avoid the spread of HFMD. Q: How do you prevent the spread of HFMD to others, including your family members?
Q: When is an HFMD patient most contagious? Q: Most
adults and children are kept from public spaces when they contract HFMD. For example, a child is required to undergo a mandatory 10-day quarantine if he or she contracts HFMD. When will HFMD patients be able to return to their normal routine (e.g. attending school or work)?
Do check with your doctor if you are not sure whether you or your child can return to daily routine. Q: Is it true that: a) you can get HFMD more than once b) you can continue breastfeeding your child safely even if you have HFMD? Yes, you can continue breastfeeding your child even if you have HFMD as the virus cannot be transmitted through breast milk. Q: Is there any vaccine available for HFMD? Q:
What are early risk indicators for potential HFMD outbreaks? Q: Should parents take their children out of kindergarten or childcare if at least one student has HFMD?
If yes/no, why? Q: Finally, what can adults and children do to protect themselves from HFMD?
In addition, avoid sharing food and drinks or personal items such as toothbrushes, towels and eating utensils. How long do handThese typically develop on the fingers, the backs or palms of the hand, the soles of the feet, and occasionally on the buttocks and groin. The spots may then turn into small blisters with a grey centre. The spots and blisters can sometimes be itchy or uncomfortable and typically last up to 10 days.
Are handThese sores usually start as small red spots, often on the tongue and insides of the mouth, that blister and can become painful. Signs that swallowing might be painful for your child: Not eating or drinking. Drooling more than usual.
How do you soothe footTo help the symptoms: drink fluids to prevent dehydration – avoid acidic drinks, such as fruit juice. eat soft foods like yoghurt – avoid hot and spicy foods. take paracetamol or ibuprofen to help ease a sore mouth or throat.
What ointment helps with handIf any of the blisters pop, apply a small amount of antibiotic ointment (such as Neosporin or Bacitracin) and, at this point, you cover it. Remember, the fluid is contagious so if you're touching any of the blisters to assess them or render first aid, ensure you wash your hands immediately after.
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