Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a contagious illness commonly found in young children, especially during the rainy season. It is caused by several types of enteroviruses, such as Coxsackievirus A16 and Enterovirus 71. Among these, Enterovirus 71 can lead to more severe symptoms. The virus enters the body through the digestive system and spreads easily in environments with many children, such as kindergartens and daycare centers, particularly in areas with poor hygiene.

How HFMD Spreads

• Direct contact: Touching an infected person’s hands, nasal discharge, saliva, or feces.
• Indirect contact: Handling contaminated objects, such as toys or personal items.
• Droplets from coughing or sneezing: Exposure to respiratory droplets from an infected person.

Symptoms of HFMD

• Fever: High fever (38-39°C) typically occurs in the first 1-2 days.
• Mouth sores: Small, shallow ulcers often appear on the tongue, inner cheeks, and roof of the mouth, causing pain, drooling, and difficulty eating.
• Skin rashes: Clear or red blisters, often found on the palms, soles, buttocks, knees, and elbows.
• Other symptoms: Loss of appetite, fatigue, and headaches may accompany the illness.

Complications

While HFMD usually resolves within 7-10 days without severe symptoms, complications such as encephalitis, meningitis, myocarditis, or even death can occur, particularly in young children or individuals with weakened immune systems.

Parents should watch for signs of complications, including persistent high fever, lethargy, seizures, vomiting, rapid breathing, or cold extremities. Seek medical attention immediately if any of these symptoms appear.

Preventing HFMD

• Frequent handwashing: Use soap and clean water, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after touching various objects.
• Maintaining hygiene: Regularly clean toys, personal items, and frequently touched surfaces.
• Avoid close contact: Refrain from kissing, sharing items, or being in close proximity to infected individuals.
• Wearing masks: Use masks in crowded places or when coughing or sneezing.
• Vaccination: Vaccines can reduce the severity of HFMD. It is recommended for children aged 6 months to 5 years. (Reference: [Link to the Department of Disease Control])

Caring for Children with HFMD

• Adequate rest: Ensure the child gets plenty of sleep.
• Hydration: Encourage the child to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Soft foods: Offer soft, bland foods like porridge or rice soup to make eating easier.
• Cool compress: Use a cool compress to reduce fever.
• Personal item hygiene: Avoid sharing personal items such as cups, spoons, or towels.
• Stay home: Keep the child out of school until they fully recover to prevent spreading the virus.
• Consult a doctor: Seek medical advice if unsure about symptoms or care.

Eureko Mouth Spray: A Solution for Mouth Sores

Eureko Mouth Spray is a product specifically designed to relieve mouth sore pain for children with HFMD. Its unique features include:

• Wound coating: Forms a protective film over mouth sores, preventing irritation from food, drinks, and saliva. This makes eating, brushing teeth, and swallowing less painful.
• Pain relief: Provides rapid pain relief, noticeable from the first use, helping children eat and feel more comfortable.
• Safe for children: Free from alcohol, antibiotics, anesthetics, and steroids, making it safe even if swallowed accidentally. Suitable for children as young as 3 months old.

Easy Application

• For children over 1 year: Spray 3-5 times inside the mouth, covering the cheeks, roof of the mouth, tongue, and throat. The spray produces a directed stream rather than a mist, making it easy to use with young children. Wait approximately 10 minutes before allowing food or drinks.
• For infants: Hold the baby upright and spray 3 times into the mouth. Wait 10 minutes before feeding milk.

We hope this article is helpful for parents. If you have further questions, feel free to ask!

Order Eureko Mouth Spray at

• LINE: @genkihouses

Download our free eBook: “A Guide to Caring for Children with HFMD” at https://t.ly/j8ttu.