What is the difference between herpetic pharyngitis and hand, foot and mouth disease in children?

The differences between herpangina and hand, foot and mouth disease in children are mainly reflected in symptoms, causes and course of disease. Herpangina is characterized by high fever and sore throat, while hand, foot and mouth disease is characterized by rashes on the hands, feet, mouth and other parts of the body. Understanding their respective characteristics will help to accurately distinguish and take appropriate measures.

1. Symptom difference: Herpetic pharyngitis usually presents with a sudden high fever, accompanied by sore throat and loss of appetite. Small blisters or ulcers will appear at the back of the mouth. In addition to fever, hand, foot and mouth disease is also accompanied by papulovesicles distributed on the palms, soles and oral area.

2. Cause and transmission: Both are caused by enterovirus, but the pathogenic virus strains are different. Herpangina is generally caused by Coxsackievirus A, while hand, foot and mouth disease is often caused by Coxsackievirus A16 or enterovirus 71. Their transmission routes are mainly through close contact, and may also be transmitted through droplets.

3. Course of disease and care: Herpetic pharyngitis usually heals itself within a week, during which time antipyretics and good rest are needed. The symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease are relatively mild and also improve within 7-10 days. It is an important preventive measure to isolate patients to prevent the spread of the virus.

It is important for parents to distinguish which disease their children have. Generally, the high fever and sore throat of herpangina require special attention, and the child's fever should be reduced in time and ensure that the child is hydrated. For hand, foot and mouth disease, pay attention to changes in the rash in the hands, feet and mouth area, and prevent the child from scratching to avoid infection. If symptoms persist or worsen, please see a doctor as soon as possible for professional guidance. Understanding these differences and treatment measures will help better care for sick children and reduce the spread of disease.