To be honest, I didn’t even know something like Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease (HFMD) existed until I heard about it from another mommy friend. She told me her kid suddenly got tiny red rashes on his feet, then hands, then around the mouth – and boom! Panic mode on. 😰
📌 So, what is HFMD?
- It’s a viral infection that mostly affects toddlers and young kids.
- Caused by Coxsackievirus, it spreads easily – through sneezing, coughing, or even touching the same toys and surfaces.
- Monsoon season is its favorite time to spread, thanks to all that humidity. 😩
🧒 Common symptoms include:
- Red rashes or blisters on feet, hands, and inside the mouth 👣👋👄
- Mild fever 🌡️
- Irritability and fatigue 😤
- Loss of appetite 😞
- Sore throat and excessive drooling 😮💨
🛑 What moms should do if you suspect HFMD:
- Visit your pediatrician immediately for proper diagnosis 🩺
- Keep your child at home – no school or day care till they recover 🏠
- Clean and disinfect toys, utensils, and surfaces regularly 🧼
- Use separate towels, sheets, and dishes for the sick child 🛏️🍽️
- Keep your little one hydrated – coconut water, soups, and juices work wonders 🥥🥣
❤️🩹 Home care tips:
- Give soft and cold foods to ease mouth sores – curd rice, mashed banana, or ragi porridge
- Apply calming lotion on rashes for relief
- Encourage rest and offer lots of comfort – even if that means storytime all day 📚✨
While HFMD sounds scary, it usually goes away in 7–10 days with proper rest and hygiene. Mommies, don’t stress – just be alert and prepared. With a little extra care, your kiddo will be back to their happy self soon. 😊
