HFMD is a common, contagious viral illness that usually affects young children. HFMD is usually only a mild disease and most patients recover in 7 – 10 days. The first symptoms are fever, poor appetite, a sore throat, and a general feeling of being unwell. About a day or two later red spots appear in the mouth that develops into painful ulcers. A non‐itchy skin rash (which may blister) develops on the hands, feet, and buttocks. The lapse between getting the infection and the onset of symptoms (incubation period) is 3 – 7 days. The person is most infectious during the first week of illness.
The HFMD infection is spread from person to person via direct contact with infected secretions such as saliva, fluid of blisters, or stool. There is no vaccine. How to help prevent and control the spread of HFMD:
Wash hands well with soap and water.
Do not share food, drinks or eating utensils.
Cover the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.
Avoid close contact such as kissing and hugging.
Disinfect contaminated surfaces and items by washing with a diluted chorine containing product If your child develops symptoms:
Keep them at home if there is fever, mouth ulcers, or blisters. Once the blisters are dry and scabbed over the student may return to school.
Maintain adequate fluid intake.
Seek medical attention if there is persistent high fever or vomiting, or any time you are worried.
There are no specific treatments available to cure the disease.
If your child is diagnosed with HFMD, please contact the clinic and bring your child into the Clinic to be assessed before returning to school.
As always, please do not hesitate to contact the Health center on Nurse@ishcmc.edu.vn or by phone at 028 3898 9100 extension 2105/2633 Primary Health Center, or 1131/1132 Secondary Health Center, if you have any further questions or concerns.