DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Infectious Disease

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

LOW SEVERITY

A common viral illness that causes sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet. Most commonly caused by coxsackievirus A16. Very contagious, especially among young children. Not related to foot-and-mouth disease in animals.

Global Affected

10.0M

Countries

25

Symptoms

Fever
Sore throat
Painful mouth sores
Red rash on hands/feet
Blisters
Irritability (infants)
Loss of appetite
Feeling unwell

Treatment Options

Pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
Oral anesthetics
Hydration
Soft foods
Cold foods/fluids
Rest
Isolation

Risk Factors

1Age (under 5)
2Childcare/school settings
3Close contact
4Summer/fall season
5Poor hygiene

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Clinical diagnosis
  • 2Throat swab/swab from lesion
  • 3Viral culture
  • 4PCR testing
  • 5Stool sample

Prognosis

Excellent. Usually resolves in 7-10 days. Not serious. Dehydration main concern. Immunity develops but can get again with different virus. Rare complications.

Prevention

  • Good hand hygiene
  • Don't share utensils/cups
  • Clean surfaces
  • Stay home while sick
  • Avoid close contact
  • Cover coughs/sneezes

Research Status

Supportive care only. Pain relief important for hydration. Usually self-limited. Rare complications (aseptic meningitis, encephalitis). Enterovirus A71 causes more severe outbreaks in Asia. No specific antiviral treatment.

Affected Countries

United StatesUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaGermanyFranceItalySpainJapanBrazilMexicoIndiaChinaRussiaSwedenNetherlandsNorwayFinlandDenmarkSingaporeMalaysiaThailandVietnamPhilippinesIndonesia

Sources

  • https://www.cdc.gov/hand-foot-mouth
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hand-foot-and-mouth-disease
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.