CAUSES:
HFMD is caused by viruses that belong to the enterovirus genus. Infection caused by Coxsackievirus A16 is mild and patients recover in 7 to 10 days. However, there are more complicated cases involving the nervous system due to HFMD caused by other strains of virus like enterovirus 71.

SPREAD OF THE DISEASE:
Infection is spread from person to person by direct contact with infectious virus via nose and throat secretions, saliva, blister fluid, and stool of infected persons. The virus is most often spread by persons with unwashed, virus-contaminated hands and by contact with virus-contaminated surfaces. Infected persons are most contagious during the first week of the illness, however, the virus can remain in the body for several weeks. HFMD is not transmitted to or from pets or other animals.

TREATMENT:
There is no specific treatment or prevention medication for HFMD in orthodox medicine. Only symptoms are treated to provide relief from pain from mouth sores and from fever and aches.

HOMEOPATHIC HELP:
There is no conventional treatment or prevention of HFMD.
Homeopathy, as we know, does not treat a disease. It treats an individual suffering with a particular set of symptoms constitutionally by taking into consideration, physical make up and the presenting symptoms.
Homeopathic remedies assist in reducing the severity and length of the symptoms without any side effects.

LIFE STYLE HELP TOWARD PREVENTION:
Good hygiene definitely helps limit the spread of the disease.
Hands are to be washed frequently and especially after changing diapers and after using the wash room. All surfaces should be regularly infected. Close contact (kissing, hugging, sharing eating utensils or cups, etc.) should be avoided temporarily with the child suffering from HFMD.
Child should be kept hydrated, with plenty of water, un-pasteurized milk, freshly made juice, popsicles that are made from fresh juice and the like. Children suffering from HFMD should be kept away from schools and child care till they are well as it can spread very quickly to other children.
Regular use of homeopathic remedies will increase the child’s immunity and prevent future occurrence of such infectious diseases.

You may ask your personal query to Raj Kothuru (Homeopath) via email drraj@aurahealth.com.au or by phone 0425 761 826 / (03) 9077 5044 regarding your health problems. You will be offered authentic information and an opinion as to what best can be done pertaining to your ailment.