Hand-foot-and-mouth disease: Overview

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection that primarily affects children under the age of five. It is caused by enteroviruses, with the most common culprits being coxsackievirus A16 and enterovirus 71. HFMD typically begins with a fever, sore throat, and general malaise, followed by the emergence of a rash on the hands, feet, and buttocks. The rash starts as red spots and progresses to fluid-filled blisters. While HFMD is usually self-limiting and causes mild symptoms, it can rarely lead to severe complications, such as neurologic manifestations or even death. It is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects. The incubation period is usually three to five days, and the disease resolves within a week to ten days. Symptomatic treatment and supportive care are the main management approaches for this disease.