### Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease: Symptoms and Prevention Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is a viral infection that mostly affects children under 10, but can also occur in teenagers and adults. It spreads through air droplets from coughs, sneezes, or nose blowing, as well as through contact with contaminated surfaces, blister fluids, or stool from an infected person. The most common cause is the coxsackievirus A16, with most cases occurring in summer and early fall. #### Symptoms - **Fever**: Children may develop a fever and flu-like symptoms, including a sore throat and reduced appetite. - **Mouth Sores**: Painful red spots, known as herpangina, appear in the back of the mouth. These can blister and cause significant discomfort, potentially leading to high fever or seizures. - **Skin Rash**: A rash may appear on the palms, soles, elbows, knees, genital area, and buttocks. These red spots can blister and contain the virus, so it's important to keep the area clean and avoid contact with others. #### Complications - **Dehydration**: Due to mouth and throat sores, swallowing can be difficult, making it crucial to ensure the child stays hydrated. - **Severe Complications**: In rare cases, the virus can reach the brain, causing more serious issues. #### Prevention - **Hygiene**: Wash hands frequently, especially after using the toilet or changing diapers. - **Disinfection**: Clean and disinfect common surfaces and toys regularly. - **Avoid Close Contact**: Keep infected children away from others until symptoms clear up. There is no specific treatment for hand-foot-and-mouth disease. Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications for pain and fever are recommended. Avoid aspirin due to potential complications. Immunity can develop after recovery, but only to the specific virus strain, meaning reinfection with a different strain is possible.