A Parent’s Guide to Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
Parents need to be on top of things, twenty-four hours a day. While some of us can distinguish rashes on a child’s mouth, hands, and feet as symptoms of the disease, not many parents know much beyond that. This guide can help you find answers to some common questions about hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD).
What Are The Symptoms Of HFMD?
Some symptoms of HFMD are as follows:
· A fever along with a sore throat
· Red blisters or spots on the child’s hand, feet, or buttocks
· Ulcers developing in the throat or inside the mouth
· Exhaustion and irritation
· Reduced appetite
How Does HFMD Spread?
HFMD is a communicable disease and spreads if a person has direct contact with an infected person. They can also catch the disease if they touch surfaces that have the virus on them.
How Can You Reduce Chances Of Your Child Being Infected By HFMD?
Remind your child to regularly wash their hands—children have a habit of touching their faces and eyes. Avoid sharing plates, spoons, and forks among children to prevent infections. Wipe all surfaces with a disinfectant to reduce the chances of being infected.
How Can You Treat Your Child?
While there is no specific treatment for HFMD, you can help reduce the discomfort and pain. You can provide your child with proper doses of painkillers to reduce their fever. If your child is having trouble eating, you can apply the gel inside their mouth to numb the blisters. The child should be well-hydrated, as it is important for quicker recovery.
How Long Before Your Child Can Go Back To School?
You may need to wait at least two weeks before sending your child to school. When the physical symptoms have passed, the child is fit to return.
What Should You Do After Your Kid Is Symptom-Free?
Make sure that you have thoroughly washed all of your child’s clothes and toys, and disinfected all surfaces. Most children will develop immunity from the disease after the first infection, but a second episode may occur if you are not careful.
Natomas Family Practice provides pediatric care specialists in Sacramento. If you have children who are showing symptoms of HFMD, visit our urgent care services in Sacramento. Contact our office to book an appointment.
Comments
Post a Comment