The National Institute of Infectious Diseases has reported a rise in hand, foot and mouth disease cases in Japan, marking the largest number of cases during this time of year in the past decade. Despite usually being associated with summer, the disease has continued to affect people well into October.
According to designated medical facilities nationwide, the average number of hand, foot and mouth disease patients per institution has increased for three consecutive weeks. Prefecture-wise, places like Ehime, Yamagata, and Toyama have reported high averages of patients. Over 41 of Japan's 47 prefectures have exceeded the warning level of five patients per institution.
Hand, foot and mouth disease spreads through various means, including droplets released into the air by sneezing and coughing or by direct contact with contaminated hands to the eyes, nose, or mouth. The disease, characterized by fever and rashes on the body, can also lead to complications such as encephalitis in rare cases. This year's strain affects not only the hands and feet but also the face and abdomen.
Children aged 3 and older, including elementary school students, are showing a high number of cases this year, possibly due to a lack of immunity caused by reduced incidences of the disease during the spread of COVID-19. Professor Hiroyuki Moriuchi emphasizes the importance of seeking medical attention if children exhibit severe symptoms like dehydration, vomiting, reduced urination, or extreme fatigue.
While there is no specific treatment for hand, foot and mouth disease, symptoms usually resolve within a week. Proper hydration and nutrition are crucial during this time, as pain from mouth rashes can hinder these essential practices. As alcohol-based sanitizers may be less effective against enteroviruses, experts recommend thorough handwashing with soap and water as a preventive measure against the disease.