HAND, FOOT, AND MOUTH DISEASE (HFMD)

Current Context : A rise in HFMD cases has been reported in New Delhi, particularly among children.

ABOUT HFMD

• Nature: Common viral illness, mostly affecting children (can affect adults with weak immunity).
• Cause: Mainly by Coxsackievirus A16.
• Symptoms:
  • Sores in the mouth.
  • Rash on hands and feet.
  • Fever and general weakness.
• Spread: Highly contagious in schools/daycare centres.
• Treatment: No specific treatment; recovery usually in 7–10 days.
• Complications: Rare; can cause viral meningitis in severe cases.
• Not Related To: Foot-and-Mouth disease (affects cattle).