Learn about hand, foot, and mouth disease in children, its symptoms, causes, and the EV71 vaccine that helps prevent severe complications like brain inflammation.
Hand Foot and Mouth Disease in Children and the EV71 Vaccine
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD)
This is a common viral illness in children, especially those under the age of 5. It can occur year-round but is more prevalent during the rainy and winter seasons. Outbreaks often happen in daycare centers and kindergartens due to the virus spreading easily through contact with fluid from blisters, nasal mucus, saliva, or shared items such as toys and utensils.
Causes of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
The disease is caused by a group of viruses known as enteroviruses, of which more than 100 types are currently known. The most common strains responsible for HFMD are Coxsackievirus A16 and Enterovirus 71 (EV71).
Symptoms of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
Most children experience mild symptoms, including rashes, blisters, or inflamed sores with pus on the hands, palms, feet, soles, and inside the mouth. They may also have a high fever for 1–2 days, mouth pain, and reduced appetite. Most recover naturally once the immune system responds to the virus. However, in rare cases—especially with EV71—the illness may lead to severe complications like brain inflammation or myocarditis. Symptoms may include muscle twitching, drowsiness, coma (due to brainstem infection), abnormal heart rhythm, and pulmonary edema, which can be fatal.
EV71 Vaccine for Severe HFMD
As mentioned above, HFMD can be caused by multiple viral strains. The currently available vaccine specifically targets Enterovirus 71 (EV71), the strain responsible for severe cases, particularly brain inflammation. However, it does not protect against HFMD caused by other enteroviruses or coxsackieviruses. The EV71 vaccine has been shown to be safe, with over 48 million doses administered globally. Common, mild side effects may include fever, diarrhea, or loss of appetite—similar to typical vaccination reactions.
Who Should Receive the EV71 Vaccine?
- Recommended for children aged 6 months to under 6 years
- Given as two intramuscular injections, 1 month apart
