infections
Hand Foot and Mouth Disease
Introduction
Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is an Overview of Enterovirus Infections that causes fever and a rash on the hands, feet, and mouth, most often in young children. Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is caused by various enteroviruses and is usually spread by coming into contact with contaminated material or air droplets. Symptoms include fever, painful mouth sores, and a rash. The diagnosis is based on an examination of the mouth sores and rash. Treatment includes measures to relieve pain and fever. Good hand hygiene can help prevent the infection. This disease can be caused by many different enteroviruses, such as coxsackievirus, and is most common among young children. Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is more common in the spring, summer, and fall but can occur in winter. People become infected when they come into contact with any of the following: An infected person (for example, by hugging) Droplets spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes Feces, such as changing diapers of an infected person, then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth before washing hands Contaminated objects and surfaces, such as doorknobs, then touching the eyes, mouth, or nose before washing hands People are most contagious during the first week of illness. 