Staying Well: Avoiding Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is an infection that causes sores to form primarily in the mouth, and on the hands and feet as well as other parts of the body. While this is typically a disease of childhood, all age groups are susceptible and over the past several years there have been many reports of outbreaks on college campuses. While JMU has not experienced a significant outbreak, we have seen several cases so students are encouraged to recognize the symptoms and utilize prevention methods.

This is a contagious disease caused by viruses passed on through body fluids of an infected person including:

• Mucus from the nose
• Saliva
• Fluid from one of the sores
• Traces of bowel movements

People with hand, foot, and mouth disease are most likely to spread the infection during the first week of their illness. But the virus can live in their body for weeks or even months after the symptoms have gone away. Also, some people who have the virus may not have any symptoms but can still pass it on to others.

Symptoms include low-grade fever, fatigue, and painful ulcers typically affecting the mouth, hands and feet. The symptoms may last anywhere from 3-10 days with adults usually experiencing the shorter durations.

Treatment is aimed at treating the most bothersome symptoms, typically with acetaminophen or ibuprofen. The sores in the mouth can make swallowing painful. Cold foods, like popsicles and ice cream, can help to numb the pain. Soft foods, like pudding and gelatin, might be easier to swallow. Since this is a viral illness, antibiotics will not be helpful.

PREVENTION

Hand hygiene is important in the prevention of hand, foot, and mouth disease (as well as many other illnesses.) The most important thing you can do to avoid getting or to prevent the spread of this infection is to wash your hands often with soap and water. If you get the disease, you should continue this focus on hand hygiene even after you are feeling better.

Surfaces that come in contact with oral secretions or feces should be cleaned and disinfected.

Stay healthy, Dukes!