The Ministry of Health (MOH) on Friday issued a warning to the general public of an increase in the Coxsackie Viral Infection in Dominica.
The infection, commonly known as Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD), commonly affects young infants and children, but adults and older children can also get it.
The MOH said for the past two weeks there have been several reported cases but there have been no hospital admission, severe cases nor death.
HFMD is a contagious viral illness and should not to be confused with foot-and-mouth (also called hoof-and-mouth) disease which is caused by a different virus and affects cattle, sheep, and pigs, according the MOH.
Health authorities say symptoms of Coxsackie Viral Infection usually begin with a fever, reduced appetite, sore throat, and a feeling of being unwell. A day or two after the fever starts, painful sores can develop in the mouth. A skin rash with flat red spots may also develop on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. This can sometimes occur on the knees, elbows, and buttocks as well. This rash may blister but usually won’t itch.
Some people, especially young children, may get dehydrated if they are not able to swallow enough liquids because of painful mouth sores.
Not everyone will get all of these symptoms. Some people may only have a rash; some may only have mouth sores. Other people may show no symptoms at all, but they can still pass the virus to others.
The illness is typically mild, and nearly all patients recover in 7 to 10 days without medical treatment. Sometimes infected person can develop complications of viral meningitis (characterized by fever, headache, stiff neck, or back pain) and may need to be hospitalized for a few days. Some persons can also develop complications of secondary bacterial infection and become very sick. Persons who develop complications will need to be admitted to the Hospital for treatment.
People with Coxsackie Viral Infection are most contagious during the first week of their illness. However, they can sometimes be contagious for weeks after symptoms go away. The infection is usually spread from an infected person to others through physical contact from touching, kissing, hugging, or even through sharing cups and eating utensils.
The virus can also be transmitted through:
• coughing and sneezing,
• contact with feces, which can happen during diaper changing,
• contact with blister fluid, and
• touching objects or surfaces that have the virus on them.
There is no specific treatment for hand, foot and mouth disease. Fever and pain can be managed with over-the-counter fever reducers/pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. (Caution: Aspirin should not be given to children).
It is important to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration (loss of body fluids).
The MOH says there is also no vaccine to protect against the disease. However, residents can reduce the risk of getting infected with the viruses by following a few simple steps:
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after changing diapers.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact (kissing, hugging, sharing cups and eating utensils) with people who are infected.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces (toys, doorknobs, etc.), especially if someone is sick.
Infected children should be kept at home, the MOH warns.
its in a lot of places,saw it among kids in England.
My duagther had it…she is all good now….but those mouth sores…looked frightful. Thank God they didn’t affect her eating for more than a day….MOH reporting too late though….so many children have been infected due to the ignorance of parents, daycare providers, teachers and babysitters…..thank God..it is not fatal..dozen of children would have died !!!it takes too long to give out information…I understand that you have to do test to ‘professionally diagnose’ but awa…faster work please
With all sorts of people coming in through our ports unchecked,what do you expect. YES! this disease is prevalent in Asia. It is just the begining. Not only the peolple coming, the merchandise that come through our ports from this continent must be thoroughly inspected.
Every country has had a spell of this in recent years – England included.
thank god my daughter is much much better
This disease is most prevalent in Asia.
(Make what you want of that)
Well when you play with dog you should expect to get fleas and ticks.
I think The Ministry of Health (MOH)should be more vigilant even at all ports of entry.