Experts Warn Hand, Foot, And Mouth Disease Cases Are Rising, And Here Are The Early Signs

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a fairly common illness that primarily affects children under five years of age but can also affect adults. The disease is usually harmless but in very rare cases, the disease can develop into viral meningitis. 

Health experts are warning that 2016 has been characterized by a noticeable rise in the number of HFMD cases and asks everyone, especially those with young children, to become aware of the symptoms of the disease. 

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Health officials in many parts of the United States have noted an increase in hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) cases in 2016. 

The West Central Health District in Georgia has issued a warning that cases of HFMD have been on the rise this November.

That's not the only place, though. 

Kent County, Michigan was also hit with an increase in HFMD cases in June of this year. So what are the signs and symptoms to look out for, and what is the risk to children or even adults?

The number one symptom of this disease is the appearance of flat, red and painful sores on many parts of the body.

The most visually shocking symptom associated with HFMD is the sores that accumulate around the mouth. 

Some of the most painful sores can be located on the roof of the mouth. 

Daycare centers often put up warnings when children in their care have or had HFMD as it is highly contagious during the first week of infection. 

There are several other markers of the disease...

This rash can also spread to the soles of the feet and a child's hands. 

Many parents panic when they see the pervasive rash, but this doesn't mean your child is at immediate risk or harm. It's important to know that the rash can spread to a child's legs and body as well in some cases. 

The disease can also affect adults, but they are less likely to have visible symptoms. 

Unfortunately, adults carrying HFMD can pass it on to other adults and children. As mentioned previously, HFMD is much less likely to affect adults. 

The sores can also appear in or around the throat, but a sore throat can also be present without sores. 

Some additional warning signs include a fever and lack of appetite. The CDC points out that the symptoms may not appear all at once and can come in stages. 

Luckily, HFMD runs its course over a week or two. 

The West Central Health District stated in their warning that there are clear precautions one can take to reduce spreading and contracting the disease. They explained, "You should always maintain good hygiene, like washing hands often with soap and water and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing. These actions will minimize your chance of getting and spreading infections."
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