Hand- foot-and-mouth disease is only a human disease, and should not be confused by foot and mouth disease that affects cattle, sheep and swine.  The diseases are not related.  Humans do not get the animal disease, and animals do not get the human disease.

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is a viral disease that affect mostly children and young adults.  It is most prevalent during summer and fall.

Early symptoms of this condition vary, but generally include a sore throat and mouth, a loss of appetite, and a fever.  in a few days, a rash appears in the mouth, on the fingers,  the hands and the feet.  It may also occur on the buttocks and genitals.  Blisters develop on the rash as well as around the mouth and tongue.  The mouth area will feel sore and irritated.

The best treatment for hand-foot-and-mouth disease involve treating the symptoms as there is no known cure.  Make sure the child is well hydrated.  Cold drinks or frozen treats may help relieve the soreness in the mouth.  A topical lotion such as calamine lotion may be used on the hands and feet to relieve itching.  to reduce the fever and pain, give acetaminophen.  Remember that no-one under twenty years of age should be given Aspirin. Bland food will be most acceptable.

Because the hand-foot-and-mouth disease virus spreads easily, it is better to keep children isolated until all symptoms disappear or even longer if you physician advises.  The virus is spread through contact with infected saliva, mucous, and stools, as well as from infected surfaces and the discharge fro the blisters.   The best prevention against the disease is to carefully wash the hands after any possible contact with the virus or with an infected person.

Complications connected to hand-foot-and-mouth disease are rare, but if all symptoms have not disappeared in one week, or seem to be worsening, see your physician immediately.VN:F [1.9.3_1094]VN:F [1.9.3_1094]Understanding Hand-Foot-And-Mouth Disease, 10.0 out of 10 based on 1 rating Spin The Wheel! View A Random InfoNugget…