Caused by one of the countless viruses of the enterovirus family, hand-foot-mouth syndrome is a pathology that mainly affects children between 6 months and 4 years old. Particularly contagious, this benign infection is essentially characterized by the appearance of skin rashes associated with flu-like signs. In the absence of complications, the disease resolves spontaneously in the baby within a few days.
1. Incubation, contagion, healing… Everything you need to know about the duration of hand-foot-mouth disease in babies
Foot-hand-and-mouth infection is transmitted by direct or indirect contact with infected saliva droplets or objects contaminated by one of the viruses responsible for the pathology. The incubation period — that is to say the period between the first contact with the viral strain and the appearance of symptoms — varies between 3 and 7 days. The infected child is contagious for the entire duration of the illness, which corresponds — on average — to 7/10 days.
Contrary to popular belief, the infected person is contagious even before the appearance of skin blisters. You should know that the virus concerned turns out to be particularly resistant and tenacious since it can persist in the stools for up to 12 weeks after contamination (according to theMontreal Children’s Hospital). Hand, foot and mouth syndrome is benign in the majority of cases. The various symptoms presented will resolve spontaneously in just a few days. Large breakouts, on the other hand, will sometimes take longer to disappear. Certain oral lesions can, in fact, persist beyond ten days.
2. Foot-hand-mouth: what are the possible complications?
Although rarely affecting babies under 6 months, the hand-foot-mouth virus can have significant consequences in toddlers who will be much more sensitive to the phenomenon of dehydration. In the event of severe and/or painful mouth rashes, the baby may refuse to take his bottle. It is therefore essential to monitor the general condition of the infant and to consult a doctor as soon as possible. A change in behavior, a form of apathy, a wrinkled skin surface or even abnormally rapid breathing are warning signals that should not be neglected. For children who are unable to eat normally, there are local analgesics to apply inside the mouth to relieve the pain induced by the blisters. Fruit compotes or purees also provide a good source of water. If the infant suffers from diarrhea, a rehydration solution containing glucose and electrolytes may be prescribed by the doctor or pediatrician. In all cases, medical monitoring is essential in young children or in immunocompromised people.
Sources
- Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease, Brenda L. Tesini, The MSD Manual — Healthcare Professional Version, June 2023
- Understanding hand, foot and mouth disease, Montreal Children’s Hospital