Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common infectious disease among children that worries many parents. What are the characteristics of hand, foot and mouth disease? Under what circumstances is timely medical treatment necessary? Recently, CDC WeChat official account released relevant tips. What hand foot mouth disease? What are the characteristics? Hand, foot, and mouth disease is an infectious disease mainly prevalent in children caused by enteroviruses. There are several core characteristics: Who is easy to get: Babies under the age of 5 are at high risk, especially those aged 1-2 who are most susceptible. When is the peak period: It may occur throughout the year, but April to July (spring peak) and September to November (autumn peak) are the "peak periods". What are the symptoms: The child may have a fever, followed by red spots, blisters or ulcers on the hands, feet, mouth, buttocks and other areas, and may also cough and lose appetite. Severity: Most children have mild symptoms and will recover on their own within 7-10 days; But a very small number (especially under 3 years old) can develop encephalitis, pulmonary edema, and even endanger life. Tip: Currently, there are over 20 types of enteroviruses that can cause hand, foot, and mouth disease. In addition to the well-known enterovirus A71 (EV-A71), there are also different subtypes of Coxsackievirus. How does the virus target children? Fecal oral transmission: This is the main route. For example, drinking water contaminated with viruses, eating unclean or contaminated food, viruses can enter the body through the mouth. Close contact transmission: If a child comes into contact with the patient's saliva, mucus, or herpes fluid, or comes into contact with toys, towels, bottles, or door handles contaminated with these things, and then touches their own nose or mouth, the virus may take the opportunity to enter their body. Droplet transmission: When patients cough or sneeze, the virus will "fly" into the air with the droplets, and children may also be infected after inhaling them. How to do family protection? The core of prevention is to cut off the transmission chain and enhance children's resistance: firstly, vaccination. Vaccines are the best shield against viruses, and it is recommended to receive the EV-A71 vaccine between 6 months and 5 years old, with the best results achieved before the age of 1. Secondly, cultivate good hygiene habits. Wash hands frequently: Rub with soap and running water for 40-60 seconds before meals, after using the toilet, and when going home; Do not share items: Children's tableware, towels, and toys should be dedicated to a designated person and boiled or disinfected regularly (chlorine containing disinfectants can be used, but parents should strictly follow the product instructions and avoid letting their children come into contact to prevent accidental ingestion or burns); Pay attention to food and water hygiene: drink boiled water, eat cooked food, wash and peel fruits. Thirdly, environmental protection cannot be neglected. Multi ventilation: Open windows 3 times a day for at least 30 minutes each time; Avoid crowded places such as amusement parks during high incidence periods; Disinfection focus: Regularly clean door handles, toys, tabletops, etc., and dry clothes and bedding frequently. Fourthly, enhancing resistance is crucial. Regular and sufficient sleep: Sleep is the "golden period" for immune system repair and development, and it is important to establish a fixed schedule and avoid children staying up late; A balanced and vitamin rich diet: ensuring high-quality protein (milk, eggs, fish, etc.) and fresh fruits and vegetables daily; Moderate outdoor exercise and sunlight exposure: Moderate intensity activities (such as walking, running, and jumping) can enhance immune cell activity. After exercise, it is important to wipe sweat and replenish water in a timely manner to avoid catching a cold. Tip: EV-A71 is the "most severe" member of the enterovirus family that causes hand, foot, and mouth disease. Even if vaccinated with the EV-A71 vaccine, it can only prevent this virus, and other viruses may also "attack", so protection cannot be relaxed. What if I get infected? Mild home care. Isolation rest: Children should rest at home and avoid contact with other children during this period; Reduce fever and relieve pain: If the fever exceeds 38.5 ℃, use antipyretics according to medical advice; Oral care: take warm and cool liquid food (Congee, milk) to avoid irritation of ulcers; Skin care: Herpes should be prevented from scratching. If the child shows the following danger signals, go to the hospital immediately for treatment. A high fever persists for more than 3 days, and taking antipyretic medication is ineffective; Poor mental state, such as always wanting to sleep, lack of energy, or screaming in frustration; Faster breathing (more than 50 times per minute for infants and more than 40 times per minute for young children), cold hands and feet, pale or gray complexion; Vomiting, convulsions, or unstable standing. (New Society)