Coxsackie Virus
The coxsackie virus, also known as hand-foot-mouth disease, is a highly contagious virus that is spread through exposure to infected bodily fluids, surfaces contaminated by feces, or unwashed hands. It usually affects young children, under the age of ten. The incubation period after exposure is one to seven days. While not considered to be serious, the coxsackie virus is highly contagious. The coxsackie virus can cause sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet. The coxsackie virus thrives in a warm climate and occurs more commonly in the summer and fall seasons in the United States.
Symptoms of Coxsackie Virus
In most cases, coxsackie causes mild flu-like symptoms that subside without any treatment. However, in some cases they can lead to more serious infections. Coxsackie may not produce any symptoms at all or may include symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Rash on hands and feet
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Blisters on the inside of the mouth or throat
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Irritability
Treatment of Coxsackie Virus
There is no specific treatment for the coxsackie virus and it normally clears up after a few days without any treatment. For mild cases of coxsackie virus, doctors may suggest the following to relieve symptoms:
- Rest
- Fluids to prevent dehydration
- Pain relievers such as acetaminophen
- Salt water mouth rinses
In severe cases, coxsackie can result in complications. If the symptoms do not subside and appear to be serious, the child should be evaluated by a physician in order to rule out complications such as meningitis, encephalitis or myocarditis.