Bangkok: Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), a viral infection from the Enteroviruses group, is raising health concerns among young children, particularly those under five years old. While most cases of HFMD involve mild symptoms and self-recovery, certain strains like Enterovirus 71 (EV71) can lead to serious complications, including neurological issues. The disease, prevalent year-round, calls for vigilant screening and hygiene practices in schools and early childhood centers.

According to Thai News Agency, HFMD spreads through bodily fluids, such as mucus, saliva, and feces of infected individuals, and can also be transmitted via inhaling droplets from coughing or sneezing. Contact with contaminated hands, toys, or objects followed by touching the mouth is another common route of infection.

Symptoms to watch for include fever, rash or blisters on the palms, soles, or other body areas, sores or blisters in the mouth, mouth pain, refusal to eat or suckle, and drooling. In some cases, rashes or blisters may appear on the buttocks of young children. While symptoms are typically mild, severe cases can develop neurological complications.

Parents are urged to seek immediate medical attention if their child shows warning signs such as high or persistent fever, lethargy, listlessness, difficulty waking up, frequent vomiting, twitching, seizures, rapid breathing, or other unusual symptoms. Children with severe symptoms should not self-isolate at home and must be evaluated by healthcare professionals promptly.

Preventive measures in schools and early childhood centers include daily health screenings, immediate separation of sick children, and thorough cleaning of classrooms and supplies. Schools should close classrooms for cleaning if multiple children in the same class fall ill within a week. Emphasizing hand hygiene, particularly before eating and after using the toilet, is crucial. Sharing of personal items, such as drinking glasses and towels, should be avoided to prevent the spread of infection.

HFMD poses a year-round health risk, especially for young children. Vigilant monitoring of symptoms, maintaining hygiene, and isolating sick children are vital steps to reduce transmission. Parents should ensure that children with fever and blisters or sores stay home from school. Immediate medical attention is essential if any unusual symptoms or warning signs appear.