Beware of Hidden Danger for Children in Summer: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Children, particularly those under five, face an increased risk of hand, foot, and mouth disease during the summer months. Pediatrician Dr. Rüstem Üçel highlighted that this viral infection, commonly caused by enterovirus 71 and coxsackievirus A16, typically appears in summer and autumn but can shift due to climate changes. The disease spreads rapidly through respiratory secretions, saliva, close contact, and fecal matter. Swimming pools, especially when contaminated, and crowded nurseries or play areas significantly elevate the transmission risk.

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This disease is seen more frequently in the summer and autumn months. Due to global warming and seasonal changes, there can be shifts in the periods it appears.

Initial symptoms often mimic a common cold, including fatigue, loss of appetite, general malaise, runny nose, sore throat, and high fever. In younger children, these can manifest as increased fussiness, drooling, and refusal to eat. As the illness progresses, painful sores develop inside the mouth, making swallowing difficult. Subsequently, characteristic rashes appear on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and sometimes on the knees, elbows, and buttocks.

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The opening of the swimming season in summer and the swallowing of infected pool water can increase the risk of transmission. Additionally, nurseries and shared play areas pose a risk for spread.

Dr. Üçel emphasized that signs like refusal to drink fluids, persistent fever, vomiting, and excessive sleepiness warrant immediate medical attention, especially in young children where dehydration can lead to serious complications. The contagious period is highest in the first 7-10 days after symptom onset, and children should be kept from school or nursery during this time. While the disease can resemble other infections like chickenpox or herpes, a detailed examination usually allows for a diagnosis. However, prolonged fever, altered consciousness, or inability to take fluids necessitate a hospital visit.

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In the initial period, fatigue, loss of appetite, malaise, runny nose, sore throat, and high fever can be seen. In small children, it may start with fussiness, restlessness, increased salivation, and refusal to feed.