Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is commonly caused by the virus coxsackievirus which causes sores in the mouth of your child and rashes on his or her hands and feet. At times, sores may even appear on the buttocks of your child. These sores can be painful, but if not painful they cause a lot of discomfort. However, they do not last more than a week.

Often, this disease is spread by coughing and sneezing (introducing virus in the air and making it air-borne). Your child may contract it through particles in the air or through infected stool. The virus can be easily transferred when changing diapers or when your child touches his or her stool and then touches other objects around the place.

Your child will begin showing symptoms of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease within five to six days after he or she contracts the virus.

When to seek expert advise

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is a common and mild illness and usually subsides in five to six days. You should however, consult the team of medical experts working with the Children’s Hospital Service Line at The Aga Khan University Hospital if your child refuses to eat and take fluids because of the painful blisters.

If the symptoms do not go away in five to six days or worsen, contact the doctor with the Children’s Hospital Service Line immediately.

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