Hand-foot-and-mouth disease

1. What is hand-foot-and-mouth disease?

　Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is an infectious disease caused by a viral infection. It is prevalent mainly in summer among children.

2. Symptoms of hand-foot-and-mouth disease

　Three to five days after infection, patients develop a blistering rash of 2 to 3 mm in the mouth and on the palms, soles, and the top of the feet. About one third of patients have a fever, but it is usually not very high or persistent. Most patients can recover from the disease within a few days.

3. Prevention of hand-foot-and-mouth disease infection

　Common infection prevention measures are thorough hand washing and proper disposal of excrement to prevent contact infections.
　In particular, in group life of infants at childcare facilities, it is important for staff and children to wash their hands thoroughly to prevent the spread of infection. Particularly when changing diapers, dispose of excrement properly and wash the hands thoroughly.
　When washing the hands, use running water and soap. Do not share towels.
　The hand-foot-and-mouth disease virus is excreted in the stool for a relatively long period of time even after the disease has been cured, and it is thought that even infected persons without symptoms can excrete the virus. Therefore, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly every day.