Doctors in the UAE are urging parents, especially those with young children, to be vigilant for symptoms of hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD), as an increase in cases has been observed recently. The rise in cases coincides with the seasonal transition from warmer to cooler weather, which experts believe contributes to the spread of the virus.
HFMD, a common childhood infection, is characterized by a rash and painful pink blisters, along with symptoms such as high fever, joint pain, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. As the illness circulates, medical professionals are advising parents to keep infected children isolated from others to prevent further transmission.
Virus thrives in crowded environments
Dr. Khaled Saad Eldine El Edlebi, a paediatrician at Burjeel Medical Centre Al Marina, explained that in the UAE, an increase in HFMD cases typically occurs at the beginning of the school year and during the cooler months when people tend to gather more indoors, providing the perfect environment for the virus to spread. “The virus thrives in crowded environments, such as schools and daycare centres, where children have close contact,” said Dr. El Edlebi.
HFMD is most commonly seen in children under 10 years old, although adults can also be affected. “There has been an increase in paediatric patients with symptoms of HFMD recently,” Dr. El Edlebi added. “Compared to last month, I would estimate an increase of about 15-20% in patient visits, especially as we approach the peak season for viral infections in children.”
Early diagnosis of HFMD is essential, as it helps manage symptoms, reduces discomfort, and prevents complications. Dr. Rain Sim (Dr. Nurain Sim), Consultant Paediatrician at Canadian Specialist Hospital Dubai, noted that the rashes typically appear around the mouth, palms, and soles of the feet but can also affect other areas like the buttocks, especially in younger children. “The most common cause is a virus called Coxsackie, but other enteroviruses can also cause this,” she said. The disease is also associated with Herpangina, which causes similar rashes localized to the throat.
Highly infectious disease
HFMD is highly infectious, particularly during the first week of the illness, and can last 7-10 days, or even up to two weeks for toddlers. The disease is spread through saliva, respiratory droplets, and stool. “You are still infectious if you have spots in your throat, but can pass it through your stool even when the rash disappears,” Dr. Sim explained. She added that older children and adults can also spread the virus without showing any symptoms.
Doctors emphasize the importance of encouraging children to cover their nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing and to avoid touching their mouth after coming into contact with surfaces. Maintaining good hygiene is critical in preventing the spread of the disease. Dr. Mamata Bothra, Specialist Paediatrician and Neonatologist at International Modern Hospital Dubai, stressed the need to maintain proper hand hygiene and clean shared spaces like bathrooms regularly to prevent transmission.
Preventing dehydration and seeking medical care
Dr. Bothra also advised that timely interventions could alleviate discomfort for children suffering from HFMD. “Prevent dehydration and ensure adequate fluid intake, especially when mouth sores make swallowing painful,” she said. To limit the spread of the virus, she recommended implementing isolation and hygiene measures to prevent it from being passed on to others.
In severe cases, particularly when neurological symptoms or dehydration occur, medical attention may be necessary. Hospitalisation might be required for supportive care, such as intravenous fluids. Dr. Bothra added, “By adhering to preventive measures and seeking prompt medical care when necessary, the impact of HFMD can be effectively managed.”
In conclusion, doctors stress the importance of early detection, good hygiene practices, and timely medical intervention to manage HFMD and prevent its spread, particularly as the UAE enters its peak season for viral infections among children.
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