Highly Contagious Illness Spreading Among Michigan Kids

Little kids are basically walking, talking germ factories. They don’t quite grasp all the rules when it comes to basic hygiene.

Which is why, on this week's episode of “What Illness Is Making Its Way Through Michigan This Time?”, we have: hand, foot and mouth disease.

What is Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease?

Hand, foot and mouth disease is an infection that seems to be making the rounds through Mid-Michigan at the moment.

While it’s a common infection among children and typically not severe, it is highly contagious and, according to the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services, has the potential to "lead to school, nursery and daycare closures."

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Symptoms

If you think your child might have this disease, there are a few symptoms to look out for.

Common symptoms to watch for include:

• Fever

• Lack of energy

• Lack of appetite

• Sore throat

• Mouth sores

• Red or blistering rash on hands, feet, buttocks, genitals, elbows, and knees

These symptoms usually appear three to six days after exposure and clear up within seven to ten days.

In rare instances, additional symptoms may include nail or skin shedding, inflamed brainstem, brain swelling, inflamed heart muscle, fluid in the lungs, and—though very rare—death.

How Does Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Spread?

There are a few ways one can contract and spread the virus.

Hand, foot and mouth disease spreads in several ways:

• Person-to-person contact via saliva, mucus, stool, and other bodily fluids

• Contact with contaminated surfaces

• Fecal-oral contact (like touching your face after changing a diaper)

If you or your child contracts it, stay home, treat with over-the-counter meds to ease pain and fever, and drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

What to Do if You Catch Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

Also, sanitize your home—especially high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, remotes, and controllers. Don’t forget to wash soft items like stuffed animals and bedding.

The best prevention tips?
Wash hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and disinfect commonly touched items often.