Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Cases Surge in Japan
Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), a viral infection causing rashes on the hands, feet, and mouth, is experiencing a surge in Japan despite typically being a summer illness. The National Institute of Infectious Diseases reports a nationwide average of 10.78 HFMD patients per medical facility during the week ending October 13th. This marks the third consecutive week of rising cases and the highest number for this period in the past decade.
Ehime Prefecture has the highest average, with 28.25 patients per medical institution surveyed. Other prefectures with high numbers include Yamagata, Toyama, Miyagi, Kagawa, and Fukushima. In 41 out of 47 prefectures, the number of HFMD patients has exceeded the warning level of five per institution.
The Tokyo metropolitan area also sees a rise in cases, with Saitama having 16.4 patients per facility, followed by Chiba, Kanagawa, and Tokyo.
HFMD spreads through droplets released by sneezing, coughing, or touching contaminated surfaces. It causes fever and rashes in the mouth, on the palms, and on the soles of the feet. In rare cases, complications like encephalitis can occur. The virus can remain in patients' stool for several weeks even after symptoms subside.
The strain affecting most patients this year leads to rashes not only on the hands and feet but also on the face and abdomen. While the disease typically spreads in the summer, cases increased in June and July, declined in mid-August, and have been rising again since then.
This year, a relatively high number of cases are seen among children aged 3 and older, including elementary school students. This is likely due to the lack of immunity in older children as HFMD cases were low during the COVID-19 pandemic.
There is no specific treatment for HFMD, and most cases resolve within three to seven days. However, pain from mouth rashes can make it difficult to maintain hydration and nutrition, potentially leading to dehydration. Parents are advised to seek medical attention if their children show symptoms like inability to stay hydrated, vomiting, reduced urination, or extreme fatigue.
Alcohol-based sanitizers are thought to be less effective against enteroviruses. Proper handwashing with soap and water is essential for prevention.