NOTE: THIS POST CONTAINS IMAGES OF A SKIN DISEASE THAT SOME MAY FIND DISTURBING.
By Danielle Glaze
When people hear about Coxsackievirus, more commonly known as “Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease” (HFMD) their first instinct is to run for the hills. It is a virus that typically affects infants and children under five years of age, however, in some rarer cases it is possible to be transmitted to an adult.
THE CAUSE
Like most viruses, HFDM spreads through contact with bodily secretions such as coming into contact with an infected person’s saliva (drooling), nasal fluid/mucus (sneezing), fluid from blisters, fecal matter (poop), touching surfaces that have the virus and then touching yourself, kissing, hugging, or sharing toys, utensils, or cups. Sometimes in highly trafficked recreational water sources such as community pools, there is a higher risk of contracting HFMD if the water hasn’t been properly chlorinated and became contaminated with feces or if a diaper of an infected child was changed in the area and some feces was left behind but not easily spotted. Remember, at the pool people are in and out of the water and may step on an infected surface and step back into the pool. Children usually ingest some of the swimming water as they are splashing and playing.
THE SYMPTOMS
Fever + Flu-like symptoms 3-6 days after contracting the virus which may include:
Fever
Eating or drinking less
Sore throat
Feeling unwell
One or two days after the fever starts you may notice that your child is:
Not eating or drinking
Drooling more than usual
Only wanting to drink cold fluids
The above symptoms may be due to painful sores that develop initially in the back of the mouth and gradually spread throughout the mouth.
You may also notice that your child has a rash on their hands and soles of the feet. While cases vary, it will look like flat, red spots, sometimes with blisters. These blisters may contain the virus that causes HFMD so be sure to maintain proper hygiene and keep the blisters clean. See the images below for reference:
You’ll notice that some cases like the above may seem mild, but do not minimize the virus’ highly contagious nature. Blisters may also appear on the knees, legs, buttocks, elbows, or genitals.
TREATMENT
Currently there is no medication that can cure Coxsackievirus (HFMD). The virus usually lasts anywhere from 7-10 days. However, there are some over-the-counter medications that can ease the pain associated with the virus as you allow it to run it’s course. Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, Paracetamol (UK) are usually the most helpful with pain management, however please consult with your doctor before taking ANY medication. NEVER GIVE YOUR CHILD ASPIRIN. Always consult with your doctor regarding dosages for toddlers.
Dehydration can occur because your child may find it painful to swallow. Ice lollies with wholesome fruit or coconut water is helpful. Keeping electrolyte solutions such as Pedialyte on hand may also be beneficial. Because you have to use ready-made electrolyte solutions fairly quickly after opening the bottle, I love this powder version so that the liquid doesn’t go to waste. An even better option are the freezer pop version. Little ones can snack on them throughout the day, stay hydrated, and the ice lollies are soothing to the throat.
Room temperature soups (as hot foods may cause discomfort), soft or pureed foods, smoothies or slushies are much easier to digest so get creative and mix your favorite fruit and veggies to keep your little ones fed, healthy, and happy.
Sleep. There is nothing better than rest when you or your child is ill so let them sleep as much as possible so that their little bodies can recover!
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF: Your child is unable to stay hydrated, your symptoms don’t improve after 10 days, you have pre-existing conditions or a weakened immune system, if your infant (especially those under 6months) exhibits symptoms of Coxsackievirus.
IF YOU ARE PREGNANT AND ARE EXHIBITING SYMPTOMS CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR.
PREVENTION
If you or your child is exhibiting symptoms, STAY HOME. Isolation is key and the most responsible and respectful thing to do. Let individuals you have come into close contact with know that you have HFMD to help contain the spread of the virus. Please practice good hygiene by washing hands regularly and thoroughly for at least 20 seconds.
Thoroughly disinfect all surfaces in your home and wash all bedding once all signs of the virus have dissipated.
DO NOT TRAVEL. I’ve seen and heard first hand of families who traveled with their children despite knowing that they had the virus, put other passengers at risk, and ruined the holidays of many because they didn’t want to disrupt their travel plans. Unfortunately, it led to the children in several families getting the virus. The point is to be a good human and be considerate and respectful of others.
DO NOT ATTEND PLAY GROUPS OR CLASSES: Your child most likely won’t feel up to it, but please keep your sick child at home. HFMD is highly contagious and spreads like wildfire amongst young children when they’re exposed. If your child has gotten the virus and you recently visited a class or playgroup, please alert the facility so that they can take the proper precautions and alert other families who you may have come into contact with.
We all know how difficult it is to care for a sick child, especially if you have no assistance (single parent, no nanny/sitter, traveling partner, no family nearby) or if you get sick as well. As a rule of thumb, do not expose your child to others if your child is sick. While you can’t prevent your child from ever getting ill, doing your due diligence to protect your child from getting un-necessarily sick or infecting others is practical for your mental, physical, and social wellbeing. If you can avoid it, try not to have anyone else around your child (such a sitters, friends, or grandparents) assist with your sick child as a protection for them. Remember, if the ones you rely on to assist you get sick, in the long run you end up having to find alternative means of care for an extended period of time when you could have stayed home and tried to manage for the week on your own. It’s either now or later… pick your poison. If you can’t avoid seeking help, don’t hide it. Let the person assisting you know your child’s situation and make sure they’re comfortable with caring for a sick child. People are usually more willing to go the extra mile if you’re open, honest, and genuinely need the help. As I mentioned, be considerate of others. It goes a long way.
If you live in a building with a common-area or play space for children where a child has been diagnosed with HFMD, alert maintenance staff, and please avoid the area until it has been thoroughly disinfected.
PLEASE NOTE: Information has been sourced from the CDC and from personal experience. Please keep in mind that the topics discussed on this platform is for informational purposes only and is not meant to replace care from your licensed practitioners or certified professionals familiar with your particular circumstance. Please discuss all health care matters with your health care provider before considering any form of treatment(s) or methods that may be discussed on this platform. Please be aware that suggestions given on this platform are just that – suggestions – and may not work or be beneficial for everyone.