In the first three months of 2026, Vietnam recorded 25,094 cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), including several severe cases. Notably, the Southern region accounted for 71.9% of total cases, and 92.7% occurred in children aged 1–5 years.

Of particular concern is the circulation of Enterovirus 71 (EV71), which carries a high risk of severe complications, rapid progression, and significant impact on children's health if not detected early.

WHAT IS HAND, FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE?

Hand, foot and mouth disease is an infectious disease caused by enteroviruses. It spreads from person to person, mainly through the gastrointestinal route, and can easily lead to outbreaks.

The disease is highly contagious through:
- Direct or indirect contact
- Contaminated food, drinks, utensils, toys
- Poor hand hygiene, especially from caregivers

HFMD occurs year-round and can affect all ages, but is most common in children under 5 years old.

If not detected and treated promptly, HFMD may lead to serious complications such as:
- Encephalitis
- Myocarditis
- Acute pulmonary edema
- Death

Early detection is extremely important.

SYMPTOMS

1. Incubation period: 3–7 days

2. Early stage (1–2 days):
- Mild fever
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Loss of appetite
- Mild diarrhea

3. Full-blown stage:
- Mouth ulcers: Red sores in the mouth, gums, tongue → pain, refusal to eat or breastfeed, excessive drooling
- Skin rash/blisters: On palms, soles, elbows, knees, buttocks
- Mild fever
- Poor feeding
- Complications (neurological, cardiovascular, respiratory) may appear early (day 2–5, up to day 7)

4. Recovery stage:
Usually 3–5 days after the full stage; children recover completely if no complications occur.

TREATMENT

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment; care is mainly supportive.

About 90% of children can be managed at home:
- Isolation: Stay home, avoid school and crowded places for 10 days
- Nutrition: Age-appropriate diet; soft, easy-to-digest, cooled food; small frequent meals; continue breastfeeding
- Fever and pain control
- Oral hygiene
- Rest, avoid stimulation
- Skin care: Do not rupture blisters; apply antiseptic solution if blisters break
- Prevent transmission:
+ Do not share personal items
+ Wash hands before and after care
+ Maintain clean environment
- Follow-up:
+ Re-examination every 1–2 days during the first 7–10 days
+ Daily check-up if fever persists until fever-free for at least 48 hours
+ Monitor for warning signs

SEEK MEDICAL CARE IMMEDIATELY IF THE CHILD HAS ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:
- Fever above 39°C or lasting more than 48 hours
- Persistent vomiting
- Lethargy or irritability
- Poor feeding or refusal to eat/breastfeed
- Startling (myoclonus)
- Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
- Mottled or purplish skin
- Seizures or coma
- Any unusual signs or parental concern

PREVENTION GUIDELINES

- Maintain personal hygiene; wash hands with soap (especially after diaper changes, contact with saliva or stool)
- Clean toys, utensils, and floors regularly
- Disinfect floors using 2% Chloramine B or other disinfectants
- Limit contact with infected children
- Keep children away from daycare, school, and crowded play areas during the first 7–10 days of illness