Press Release
HAND, FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE
May 21, 1999
What is Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease?
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is a common and mild infectious disease. It can be caused by a number of enteroviruses such as Coxsackie virus and enterovirus 71. These infections tend to be most common in summer and early autumn. The incubation period is usually around 3 to 7 days.
Mode of Transmission
The infection is mainly transmitted from the faeces of infected persons to the mouth of the next person but can also be spread through droplets or direct contact with objects (such as toys) contaminated by respiratory secretions. Direct contact with open and weeping skin vesicles may also spread the virus.
Who is Susceptible to Infection?
Children below the age of 5 are most susceptible to infection. Since the disease is highly transmissible, outbreaks frequently occur in kindergartens and child care centres.
Symptoms
Flu-like symptoms may develop during the early stage of infection. Fever may persist for a few days. A painless or vesicular rash may also develop over the palms and soles. Loss of appetite may result especially if there are painful mouth ulcers. Disappearance of the rash and healing of vesicles usually occur within 7 to 10 days. Complications affecting the brain and the heart are rare.
How to Look After a Child with Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
In most cases, the fever, rash, and ulcers subside spontaneously resulting in full recovery in about one week. There is currently no effective treatment for the infection nor a vaccine to prevent its spread. To avoid complications, parents are advised to seek prompt medical attention should their children develop a high fever, decrease in alertness, or deterioration of general condition. Remember to wash hands after contact with patients with Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease.
Preventive Measures
- Maintaining good air circulation.
- Wash hands before meals and after going to toilet, handling diapers, or other stool soiled materials.
- Cover the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing.
- Clean children's toys and other objects thoroughly.
- Children who are ill should be kept out of school until their fever and rash have subsided and all the vesicles have dried and crusted.
- Avoid going to overcrowded places.
STRICT PERSONAL HYGIENE IS OF UTMOST IMPORTANCE IN PREVENTING HAND, FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE
Department of Health
(May 1999)
