What is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
Identifying your baby´s skin condition
Most parents probably have never heard of hand, foot, and mouth disease, however, it is actually quite common among infants. It is caused by an intestinal virus that often spreads quickly in nursery school or kindergarten when an epidemic hits, usually during the summer or fall.
The first symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease are fever, loss of appetite, and typical cold-like symptoms. Later, blisters may form on the mouth, as well as the hands, the buttocks, and the feet. Generally, the rashes start out as small, flat red dots, and later form blisters and sores.
Prevention and Treatment of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Preventing hand, foot, and mouth disease can be difficult, as the virus that is thought to cause this skin condition is common. However, proper hygiene, and treating open wounds promptly can help to reduce the chances that your baby will become infected. While this condition can spread to others, most older children and adults have a sufficiently strong immune system to fight off this infection. However, it is important to note that if there is anyone who has a weakened immune system in the house, to protect that person by keeping the sick baby away.
This condition is very common among preschoolers who have weaker immune systems, and rarely poses a health threat. As it is a viral infection, the disease must run its course before clearing, but will heal without treatment.
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