Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Cases Rise 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 surveyed medical institution. Other prefectures with high case numbers include Yamagata, Toyama, Miyagi, Kagawa, and Fukushima. In 41 out of 47 prefectures, the number of HFMD patients exceeds the warning level of five per institution.
The Tokyo metropolitan area also sees a rise in cases, with Saitama reporting 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, palms, and soles of the feet. In rare cases, complications like encephalitis can occur.
The virus can remain in patients' stool for weeks after symptoms subside. This year's dominant strain causes rashes not only on the hands and feet but also on the face and abdomen.
While typically a summer illness, cases increased in June and July, declined in mid-August, and have been rising again since. This year, a relatively high number of cases are seen among children aged 3 and older, including elementary school students.
Experts attribute the rise to decreased immunity among older children due to low HFMD cases during the COVID-19 pandemic.
There is no specific treatment for HFMD, with most cases resolving 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.
Proper handwashing with soap and water is essential for prevention, as alcohol-based sanitizers are less effective against enteroviruses.