Causes of hand, foot and mouth disease in adults

Hand, foot and mouth disease in adults is mainly caused by infection with enteroviruses such as Coxsackievirus and enterovirus 71. Its onset is usually related to contact transmission, reduced immunity and environmental hygiene conditions. For adult patients, it is particularly important to identify the cause as early as possible and improve personal hygiene and immunity.

1. Viral infection is the direct cause

The root cause of hand, foot and mouth disease in adults is infection with enterovirus, which is transmitted through droplets, contact with patient secretions such as saliva, feces, herpes fluid, contaminated objects or water sources. Close contact with infected people or living or working in a closed environment such as an office or public transportation will increase the probability of transmission. Although the incidence rate in adults is lower than that in children, the risk of infection will increase significantly if they have long-term contact with patients without taking protective measures.

2 Reduced immunity

When adults have weakened immunity, they are more vulnerable to enterovirus. Working overtime, staying up late, unhealthy eating habits such as high-fat and high-sugar diets, and excessive mental stress may lead to weakened resistance. At the same time, some adults have not been exposed to such viruses and lack the corresponding antibodies in their bodies, making them susceptible.

3. Environmental hygiene and bad living habits

Unclean living environment and hygiene habits are also important factors. For example, not washing hands after going out, eating undercooked food or drinking contaminated water may cause the virus to enter the body. Dense gathering places such as gyms and swimming pools and the sharing of public items such as towels and cups can also easily cause the virus to spread.

How to deal with it

1. Maintain good hygiene habits

Washing hands frequently, especially before meals and after defecation, keeping the home ventilated, and avoiding sharing items with patients are effective ways to prevent infection. After contact with patients, wash hands immediately with soap and running water. Commonly used items such as mobile phones and keyboards should also be cleaned and disinfected regularly.

2. Enhance immunity

A balanced diet, adequate sleep and proper exercise can help enhance the body's resistance. It is recommended to eat foods rich in vitamins such as dark green vegetables and fruits, high-quality proteins such as fish and eggs, etc. Maintaining a regular schedule and avoiding overwork can also significantly reduce the risk of infection.

3. Avoid high-risk places and contact with patients

Try to avoid staying in crowded or poorly ventilated environments for too long. If someone around you is infected, reduce contact, wear a mask and strengthen self-protection when necessary. Items used by patients in the living environment need to be disinfected at high temperature or cleaned with disinfectant.

The root cause of hand, foot and mouth disease in adults is infection with enterovirus, which is often related to poor hygiene and decreased immunity. Paying attention to personal hygiene, improving immunity, and avoiding close contact with infected people in daily life can effectively reduce the risk of disease. Once symptoms such as fever or rash appear, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible for investigation and diagnosis.