Question
Can hand, foot, and mouth disease lead to a persistent fever?
Answer
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is primarily caused by enterovirus infection. After onset, patients usually experience symptoms such as oral pain, blisters on the hands, feet, and mouth, loss of appetite, and a general feeling of malaise. These symptoms are often accompanied by fever that can last for several days. Once diagnosed with hand, foot, and mouth disease, it is important to isolate to prevent cross-infection. Antiviral medications and oral mucosal sprays can be used to assist in the recovery of the oral mucosa.