Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) cases are rising across the United States, particularly affecting children under five years old. The increase in cases has been noted since late August 2023, sparking concerns among parents and health officials. While HFMD is generally mild, it is highly contagious and can still pose challenges for young children and their families.
According to Dr. E. Caroline McGowan, a board-certified pediatrician with UCR Health and assistant clinical professor of pediatrics at the UC Riverside School of Medicine, most children recover swiftly with supportive care. The illness, caused by common viruses like coxackievirus A16, typically presents with symptoms resembling a mild cold, such as fever, irritability, and a distinctive rash.
Understanding Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms of HFMD usually begin with mild cold-like signs, including a runny nose, low-grade fever, and irritability, followed by the appearance of a rash. This rash often manifests as small blisters around the mouth, on the hands, and on the soles of the feet. Dr. McGowan emphasizes that while the illness is uncomfortable, specific treatment beyond supportive care is rarely needed.
Parents are advised to keep their children hydrated, as mouth sores can make eating and drinking painful. Medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) can help relieve discomfort. Cold, soft foods like yogurt or smoothies may also provide soothing relief.
Most children experience symptoms for about seven to ten days; however, some may have more extensive rashes that can take up to three weeks to resolve. Serious complications are rare, but parents should be vigilant for warning signs including extreme weakness, difficulty waking, or trouble breathing. If any of these symptoms arise, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial.
Transmission and Prevention Strategies
HFMD is primarily spread through close personal contact. The viruses involved can be found in respiratory droplets, stool, and the fluid from blisters. Dr. McGowan notes that it is challenging to control the spread among young children, who often explore by putting objects in their mouths and may not practice hand hygiene effectively.
To mitigate the risk of transmission, parents and caregivers should disinfect toys and common play areas, encourage frequent handwashing, and avoid sharing utensils or cups. Despite these precautions, outbreaks can occur easily in settings such as daycare or schools, where children interact closely.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children diagnosed with HFMD do not need to remain at home until all rashes have healed. They can return to school or childcare once they are fever-free for 24 hours without medication and are comfortable enough to partake in normal activities. Mild lingering symptoms such as a healing rash or a slight cough are not grounds for exclusion.
Dr. McGowan explains that seasonal patterns often dictate HFMD outbreaks, with peaks occurring in late spring, late summer, and early fall. The recent surge in cases aligns with these expected patterns. While the increase in reported cases may seem alarming, it is important to recognize that HFMD is a common childhood illness.
Parents are encouraged to focus on prevention and good hygiene practices rather than intentionally exposing their children to the virus. Overall, the majority of children will recover quickly, allowing them to return to their usual routines without long-lasting effects.
