Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is an acute infectious disease caused by enterovirus infections, primarily affecting infants, young children, and especially those under the age of 5. Its primary symptoms encompass fever, cutaneous herpes, oral ulcers, respiratory symptoms, and complications.

1. Fever: HFMD is often accompanied by fever. Mild cases may present with low-grade fever, while severe cases may exhibit persistent high fever. Fever is a common initial symptom of HFMD and a response of the body to viral infection.
2. Cutaneous Herpes: Patients develop rashes and herpes on their hands, feet, and in the mouth, which are typical manifestations of HFMD. These herpes initially appear as small red papules that gradually evolve into vesicles surrounded by erythema. The herpes are painless, do not itch, do not scar, and typically resolve within a week.
3. Oral Ulcers: HFMD patients develop vesicles on the oral mucosa, tongue, and gums, which initially manifest as tiny red spots and later evolve into painful ulcers. These ulcers can cause difficulties in eating and drooling.
4. Respiratory Symptoms: Some HFMD patients may exhibit respiratory symptoms such as cough, runny nose, and sore throat. These symptoms may be associated with respiratory inflammation caused by viral infections.
5. Complications: A minority of HFMD patients may develop severe complications including encephalitis, brainstem encephalitis, acute flaccid paralysis, pulmonary edema, pulmonary hemorrhage, and cardio-pulmonary failure. These complications can be life-threatening and require prompt medical attention.

Parents should closely monitor their children's health conditions and seek immediate medical examination and treatment upon observing any suspected symptoms.