Hands Foot and Mouth Disease

Overview

Hand-foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common contagious virus in infants up to the age of 10 years old. It is characterized by sores in the mouth and the palms of the hands, fingers, cheeks, followed by rashes on the hands and the bottom of the foot (Martoz, L. R. (2014)). Its is commonly caused by coxsackievirus. Its commonly found more in the summer and autumn. It spread person to person though direct contact with saliva, nasal discharge or feces in daycares and school (Administration, M. D. 2013).

Complications

The most common complication is dehydration. The sores inside the mouth and throat make swallowing difficult, making the children reluctant to drink water or anything at all. A fever, stomach pain, diarrhea and vomiting can also occur. Some people may show no symptoms at all, but they can still pass the virus to others. Most children will make a full recovery within two weeks (Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease, 2016).

Appropriate emergency response and care of complications

Keep them away from other children wherever possible until the rash has gone away completely. If your child’s symptoms show no sign of improvements after ten days, or they worsen during this time, you should take them to doctor. For the rashes, use a soothing gel or powder to rub after bathing. Also, baby aspirin can be given to the child to reduce a fever and to relieve some pain (Program, C. C., 2017)

How to help children manage their condition

Washing hands with mild soap is very important, especially after using the bathroom. Covering their mouth when coughing or sneezing. Parents can sanitize all toys and use disinfection spray in areas that may be infected. Parents should always wash your hands after changing diapers. Also, preventing the child from sharing food, drinks, toothbrush towels etc. (Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease, 2016).

Ways to bolster children’s self-esteem

To help your child’s self-esteem while they have hands, foot, and mouth disease is let them know that everything is going to be okay. Comfort them. Let you child build on their craft such as like writing or drawing with small activities.

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