What causes hand, foot and mouth disease and how to treat it

Hand, foot and mouth disease is an infectious disease caused by enterovirus, which is mainly transmitted through the mouth, nose, eyes, skin and other routes.

Hand, foot and mouth disease is mainly caused by enterovirus 71 (Coxsackie A16) and enterovirus 16. These viruses are mainly transmitted through droplets, and can also be transmitted through contact with infected objects and direct contact with the patient's body fluids (such as saliva, nasal mucus, and feces).

Symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease include fever, oral ulcers, stomatitis, rash, etc. Fever is usually between 38-39℃, accompanied by sore throat, cough, runny nose and other symptoms. Oral ulcers mainly appear on the tongue, buccal mucosa, gums, etc., which may cause loss of appetite and difficulty chewing. Rash is more common on the hands, feet and buttocks, showing red papules, blisters and ulcers.

The treatment of hand, foot and mouth disease is mainly symptomatic treatment. Patients need to rest more, maintain adequate water intake, and avoid spicy and irritating foods. Oral ulcers can be cleaned and relieved with mouthwash containing anesthetics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Rashes can be applied with ointments such as hormone ointments and antiviral ointments. For high fever and pain, antipyretics and analgesics can be used.

The best way to prevent hand, foot and mouth disease is to maintain good personal hygiene habits. Wash your hands frequently and avoid contact with the body fluids of infected people. Especially in public places such as infant nurseries and kindergartens, pay attention to strengthening hygiene management. Timely detect and isolate infected people to reduce the chance of disease transmission.