There have been several cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) across campus over the past week.听Coxsackievirus is the most common cause of HFMD听and is a contagious viral infection that causes painful sores on the hands, feet听and mouth.听Most cases resolve within a week and do not need medication attention.
It is spread to others by close personal contact, coughing or sneezing or by contact with contaminated objects and surfaces. It can be difficult to eradicate in schools, group living communities and daycares. Although it is not serious for most people, the infection can cause significant pain while eating, walking听and writing.听
Coxsackievirus infections can be serious for laboratory rodents. Staff who work in animal research facilities should take extra care not to spread the disease.听听
To avoid infecting others when听you have HFMD, practice frequent handwashing, good hygiene and limit close contact with others until sores are healed.
