Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Spread Among Children
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is rapidly spreading among children in Delhi and neighbouring Haryana in 2025. Health authorities and schools have issued advisories to contain the infection. The disease mainly affects children under ten years of age and has no specific treatment. Preventive care and home management remain the key responses.
What is Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease?
- HFMD is a contagious viral illness.
- It primarily affects children but can infect any age group.
- The main virus responsible is coxsackievirus A16.
- The disease spreads easily through air and close contact.
- Symptoms appear 3 to 6 days after infection.
Symptoms and Signs
- Initial symptoms include high fever and sore throat.
- Painful blisters develop in the mouth, hands, and feet.
- The rash may also appear on the buttocks.
- Mouth sores cause difficulty in eating and drinking.
- The rash is usually non-itchy and may vary in colour based on skin tone.
Transmission
HFMD spreads through respiratory droplets, direct contact with blisters, and contaminated surfaces. The monsoon season accelerates its spread due to increased humidity and close indoor interactions. Rainy weather often triggers outbreaks of viral infections including HFMD.
Prevention and Control Measures
Frequent hand-washing is essential to prevent transmission. Infected children should be isolated immediately to avoid spreading the virus. Schools are advised to monitor symptoms and restrict attendance of affected children. Parents should avoid sending sick children to school.
Treatment and Home Care
No specific antiviral treatment exists for HFMD. The illness usually resolves within 7 to 10 days on its own. Symptomatic treatment includes fever reducers and pain relief medicines. Homemade food and good hygiene help in recovery. Avoiding packaged or outside food reduces additional infection risks.
Public Health Response
The Directorate of Education in Delhi has issued guidelines for schools and parents. Awareness campaigns emphasise early detection and isolation. Health experts continue to monitor the situation and advise on supportive care. Hospitals report daily cases, denoting the need for vigilance.
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