1 Answers
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Hand foot and mouth disease is a very common virus in the toddler age group. Most of the time it just runs its course over 7-10 days. The most common complication is dehydration because they just don't want to drink fluids. You can use acetaminophen (tylenol) or ibuprofen (motrin) to help with the discomfort. Cool liquids such as juice, popsicles, milkshakes, or ice cream can also help. Your child does not need to eat but he needs to drink, and stay hydrated enough that his mouth is wet, he makes tears when he cries, and he is having plenty of wet diapers.
If you have any concerns that he is dehydrated or is getting very sick do not hesitate to call your pediatrician to discuss.
Hand foot and mouth is very contagious, and is contagious for days even before there are any symptoms, so it is almost impossible to prevent its spread. It usually only affects the toddler age group, so older kids either don't get it or get a cold.
For more information than you ever wanted to know about hand foot and mouth disease, go to: http://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/infections/Pages/Coxsackieviruses-and-Other-Enterovirus-Infections.aspx for information for parents from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
