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Hand-Foot---Mouth-Disease
What is Hand Foot & Mouth Disease ?
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Hand-foot-mouth disease (HFMD) is caused by the Coxsackie virus and Enterovirus 71.
The throat and tonsils develop small ulcers while the hands, feet, and diaper area are affected by a rash with characteristic vesicles (very small blisters). This is usually a mild illness with the rash healing in 5 to 7 days.
Who Gets It ?
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HFMD is spread from person to person by direct contact with the nasal discharge, saliva, faeces and fluid from the rash of an infected person.
A person is most contagious during the first week of the illness. This disease is most common among young children, particularly those aged less than 5 years.
Adults can get it, but this is much less common.
What are the Symptoms ?
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Children with HFMD disease usually start to feel crummy 3 to 7 days after they are expsed. Often, the first thing parents notice is their children's decreased appetite. Children may also have a fever, headache and a sore throat. A day or two later, many children develop sores ion the mouth. They begin as small red spots on the tongue, gums, or mucous membranes. They may blister or form ulcers.
A skin rash may also develop over a day or two, with flat or raised red spots. The spots are often found on the palms and soles. Also , it is common to have the rash on the buttocks. Often, the red spots will form tender blisters. The rash does not itch.
Treatment
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There is no specific treatment for the infection other than symptomatic relief of symptoms. Treatment with antibiotics do not help with HFMD. Acetaminophen can be used to treat fever. Aspirin should not be used in viral illness in children under age 12 years. Salt water mouth rinses may be soothing. Ensure an adequate fluid intake because swallowing may be painful.
Prevention
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Children should be kept away from crowded public places (such as schools, preschools, play groups, markets and public transport) if they show signs of infection.
Family members and schools are advised to maintain high standards of personal and environmental hygiene to minimize the risk of HFMD.
We should adopt the following good practice :
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- Wash hands with soap before eating and after going to the toilet;
- Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing;
- Maintain good air circulation;
- Clean thoroughly toys or applicances which are contaminated by nasal or oral secretions;
-Do not share eating utensils
Advice For Parents
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Children should be kept away from crowded public places (schools, preschools, play groups, markets, swimming pools, public transport etc.)
If they show signs of infection.
Parents are advised to consult a doctor early if their child has symptoms of HFMD. They should also be alert to any change oin their child's normal behaviour, e.g. irritation and sleepiness. Should they refuse to eat or drink, have persistent vomiting or drowsiness, parents should bring their child immediately to hospital.
Children suffering from HFMD should not attend childcare centres, kindergartens or schools. They should :
Stay at home and avoid contact with other children until they have recovered;
Not swim until 6 weeks after the onset of illness;
Remain away from school until their fever has subsided and they must be certified free from HFMD infection by a registered medical practitioner prior to returning to school.
parenting-online.blogspot.com/2006/07/hand-foot-remain-away-from-school.html |
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