Vietnam Warns of Severe Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Cases; Urges Vigilance

A 6-year-old girl in Ho Chi Minh City has been diagnosed with a severe case of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), prompting health authorities to issue warnings and reminders about the illness. The child presented with mouth sores, blisters on her hands and feet, fever, and disturbing nighttime awakenings, indicating a worsening condition. Initially mistaken for a common mouth ulcer, the girl's condition did not improve with home treatment. Doctors at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City diagnosed her with severe HFMD and transferred her for specialized care. Dr. Lam Boi Hy from the pediatrics department noted that the child was on the third day of illness, exhibiting blisters on her palms and soles, mild fever, poor appetite, and frequent startling awakenings. HFMD can lead to neurological, cardiovascular, or respiratory complications, with startling awakenings being a key indicator of potential neurological issues. Severe progression may also manifest as tremors, unsteady gait, lethargy, or seizures. Rapid breathing and chest retractions also necessitate prompt medical attention. During her three-day treatment, the girl received close monitoring, hydration, and oral care to alleviate pain and improve eating. After her condition stabilized, she was discharged with instructions for home care and isolation. HFMD is typically diagnosed based on clinical symptoms, including mouth ulcers and skin lesions, often accompanied by fever. Most cases are mild and resolve within 7-10 days. However, in cases requiring differential diagnosis or suspected complications, tests like RT-PCR or virus isolation from throat swabs, blister fluid, or cerebrospinal fluid may be ordered. The disease is caused by enteroviruses, commonly Coxsackievirus A16 and Enterovirus 71 (EV71). There is no specific antiviral treatment; care focuses on supportive measures, symptom management, nutrition, hydration, and monitoring. To limit transmission, doctors advise parents to ensure children wash hands frequently with soap, especially after using the toilet and before eating. Cleaning toys, utensils, floors, and frequently touched surfaces is also crucial. In households with an infected child, close contact with siblings should be minimized, and personal items should not be shared. Children diagnosed with HFMD should stay home from school and avoid crowded places during their isolation period. Outpatients need to follow up with their doctors as scheduled. Parents are urged to seek medical attention immediately if their child exhibits abnormal startling, frequent vomiting, lethargy, tremors, unsteady walking, seizures, rapid breathing, or difficulty breathing. Early detection of these warning signs allows for timely assessment and management of the disease. Information source: VnExpress