Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Blister like sores in mouth
- Skin rash- usually on palms of hands and soles of the feet
- Poor appetite
- Not feeling well
- Sore throat
- Younger children can get dehydrated
There is no vaccine to protect against hand, foot and mouth disease
An infected person can spread the virus through:
- Close personal contact
- Coughing or sneezing
- Contaminated objects and surfaces
You can help protect yourself by washing your hands often with soap and water especially after using the restroom. Avoid close contact such as kissing, hugging or sharing utensils or cups with people with hand foot and mouth disease.
There is no specific treatment for hand for and mouth disease. However some things can be done to relieve symptoms:
- Taking over the counter medications to relieve pain and fever (Caution: Aspirin should not be given to children.)
- Using mouthwashes or sprays that numb mouth pain.
- Drinking liquids to stay hydrated.
Persons who are concerned about their symptoms should contact their health care provider.
Students need to remain home when until they are without a fever for more than 24 hours
