How long coxsackie virus

Navigation menu. Who gets hand, foot and mouth disease? How is it spread? What are the symptoms and when do they start? When and how long can someone spread the disease? How is hand, foot and mouth disease diagnosed? Does a prior infection with Coxsackie virus make a person immune? What is the treatment? Can there be complications associated with hand, foot and mouth disease? What can be done to prevent the spread of this disease?

Is there a risk for pregnant women? The rash is made up of many small blisters. Children with such a severe rash may need to be seen. Reason: to confirm the diagnosis. Exception: close contact with HFMD within the last 7 days. Treatment is the same. Drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration. Peeling of the fingers and toes is common. It looks bad but is harmless.

It happens at 1 to 2 weeks. Use a moisturizing cream on the raw skin. Some fingernails and toenails may fall off. It happens at 3 to 6 weeks out. If your child has HFMD, they may feel tired, have a fever, and have a rash. Depending on which virus your child has, the skin rash can look like:.

The blisters should not be itchy like chickenpox blisters. If your child has eczema, the HFMD can cause the eczema to worsen and potentially become infected with bacteria. HFMD is most commonly caused by the coxsackie virus. The main way HFMD spreads is through contact with the fluid from inside the blisters, or with the droplets spread from sneezing and coughing. The virus can also be present in bowel movements poo for up to several weeks after the person has recovered.

HFMD is a viral infection that rarely causes further complications. Antibiotics do not work on viruses and are not given to children with HFMD. HFMD will get better on its own, but there are ways you can care for your child at home:. We acknowledge the input of RCH consumers and carers. To donate, visit www. This information is intended to support, not replace, discussion with your doctor or healthcare professionals.

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