This weeks Disease of the Week is Hand, Foot and Mouth disease. While the illness can initially look a lot like strep, with fever, sore throat and upper respiratory symptoms, it is characterized by red bumps and lesions on the elbows down to the hands, from the knees down to the feet, and an ulcerated rash on the palms and soles. In the throat, ulcers on the palate and tonsils are common. There can also be a rash on the buttocks and around the mouth. Pain control and hydration are mainstays of treatment since antibiotics will not help this illness. It is contagious like a virus, and usually lasts 5-7 days.
Posted on: Tue, 24 Jun 2014 02:37:45 +0000