Most commonly, children are the ones who experience hand, foot, and mouth disease, also known as hoof-and-mouth disease, since they're more likely to share things with others and not wash their hands regularly. Fortunately, one of the practitioners at Florida Pediatric Group, with a location in West Melbourne, FL, can provide treatment. Before you panic, however, here's what you should know about this infection. 

General Information 

Children under five are most likely to get this because they're more likely to be in close quarters with one another, have immune systems that aren't as strong as an adult's, and not wash their hands after touching shared objects. 

Isn't a Serious Condition 

 While this viral infection is highly transmittable from child to child, it isn't serious. Usually, it causes a fever, skin rash on hands and/or feet, a sore throat, and sores on the mouth that will subside in seven to ten days.

Because no antiviral cures this infection, treatment may include a fever reducer and/or numbing gel to manage any symptoms until the infection clears. Staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest can help your little one's body ward off the illness more quickly and comfortably while preventing potential complications.

Complications from hand, foot, and mouth disease are rare. If your child would have any, they may include one or more of the following: 

• Dehydration
• Viral meningitis
• Pericarditis or myocarditis
• Encephalitis
• Pneumonia 
• Nail loss

 However, the goal at our West Melbourne, FL, office is to prevent these from occurring with at-home care techniques.

How Hoof-and-Mouth Disease Spreads 

It's important to know how it's transmitted so you can educate your child on how to prevent it and understand how to protect your youngster from getting it.

So you're aware: this viral infection spreads when a child comes in contact with any of the following infected materials:

• Surfaces or objects with viral particles 
• Droplets when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes
• Feces
• Fluid from the blisters

Understanding Prevention 

One way to prevent it is to encourage your child to wash their hands frequently. Teach your child not to touch their face unless necessary.

They can stop the spread by covering their mouth when coughing or sneezing.

Another factor to remember is that you can help them prevent it by disinfecting surfaces regularly and keeping them away from those with it.

A pediatric health provider at Florida Pediatric Group's West Melbourne, FL, office can help through conservative measures if your child should contract hand, foot, and mouth disease. It's possible to prevent complications.

Call 321-752-5210 today.