Symptoms of HFMD
A fever, rash on the hands and feet, sores in the mouth. reduced appetite, and sore throat are all common symptoms of Hand Food Mouth Disease, according to the CDC. A rash may also appear on the knees, elbows, buttocks or genital area.
A fever lasting 24 to 48 hours is often the first symptom of HFMD, according to the World Health Organization.
Treating Hand, Foot, Mouth Disease
Because there is no specific treatment for HFMD, the best way to treat it is to treat its symptoms, says the CDC. The organization suggests taking pain reliever or to use a numbing spray for mouth pain.
The CDC warns that pain from mouth sores might make it difficult to drink water. Those with the disease should be monitored for dehydration.
Preventing the disease
There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for HFMD, according to the CDC, which means the best cure is not getting the disease at all.
HFMD is viral and is spread through contact with bodily fluids, including saliva, nose or throat discharges, blister fluid, or feces, according to the CDC. Frequent hand washing and avoiding close contact with an infected person will help prevent HFMD.
For more information on hand, foot, mouth disease, see the CDC fact sheet.
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This article originally appeared on USATODAY
Ashley May of USA TODAY contributed to this report.