VM Medical Park Bursa Hospital Child Health and Diseases Specialist Specialist Dr. Seda Göçer made important statements about Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease (HFMD), which can spread rapidly especially in the summer months and in communal living areas and is more common in children under the age of 5. Specialist Dr. Göçer warned parents by stating that although the disease is generally mild, it can lead to serious complications if not monitored carefully.
"Even if the symptoms start mildly, follow-up is essential"
Stating that EAAH often starts with simple symptoms, Specialist Dr. Seda Göçer shared the following information:
"The disease usually starts with symptoms such as mild fever, sore throat, weakness and loss of appetite. The incubation period of EAAH varies between 3 and 6 days. Then, painful sores in the mouth, rashes on the hands and feet or small blisters appear. These rashes can sometimes be seen in the hips and groin. In some children, additional symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea can also be observed."
"In some cases, fever, body rashes and fluid loss may be observed"
Emphasizing that the disease usually heals on its own, Specialist Dr. Göçer drew attention to the fact that in some cases, a more severe picture such as high fever, widespread body rashes and fluid loss may be encountered. Stating that serious complications such as nail loss (onychomadesis), heart and neurological system involvement may develop, although rare, Göçer emphasized that in such cases, a health institution should be consulted without delay.
Ways of transmission and protective measures
Noting that the disease is highly contagious, Göçer said that the virus can be transmitted both through direct contact and through droplets spread into the air through coughing and sneezing. In addition, Göçer stated that the virus can also spread through feces, and therefore emphasized that hygiene rules should be strictly followed.
4 important warnings for parents
Expert Dr. Göçer shared the following suggestions, stating that simple but effective precautions should be taken to protect children from such infections:
"Your hands should be washed frequently and correctly. Hygiene habits should be acquired, especially after the toilet and before eating. Contact with sick individuals should be avoided, close contact even between siblings can facilitate transmission. Toys and personal items should be disinfected regularly. Sharing toys in communal areas increases the risk of infection. Therefore, this behavior should be avoided. Children who are infected should not be sent to school or daycare. The risk of spread should be reduced by spending the rest period at home."
Treatment and recovery process
Noting that there is no specific antiviral treatment for the disease, Specialist Dr. Göçer stated that treatment is symptomatic. Stating that fever reducers, painkillers and plenty of fluids are recommended, Göçer stated that rashes usually go away on their own within a week. Specialist Dr. Göçer said, "The disease can usually be brought under control with simple precautions. For this reason, raising awareness, especially of parents, educators and everyone who is in contact with children, is of great importance in preventing outbreaks. In environments where hygiene is prioritized, the spread of the virus can be significantly reduced."
