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Hand Foot and Mouth Disease
Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is transmitted through fecal-oral route or direct contact with droplets. The majority of infections occur in preschool children, but adults may also be susceptible. The incubation period is 3-5 days.
50-80% of patients may be asymptomatic. Of those with symptoms, fever for 2 days followed by a rash over the palms, soles, feet, buttocks may be seen. The rash starts as papules which later become vesicles. Mouth ulcers may also be seen. While most people recover spontaneously, complications involving the heart, lungs and brain may occur.
There is no specific treatment or vaccine available. Treatment is supportive. As the disease is highly contagious, good personal hygiene and a 10 day quarantine of infected cases are key to controlling an outbreak.
| For the latest health advisory on HFMD, please click here. |
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