Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease Spreads Rapidly in Vietnam’s Southern Region

Hand-foot-mouth disease has spread widely in Vietnam’s southern provinces, infecting numerous children in the region, state media reported. The Ho Chi Minh City-based Paediatrics Hospitals No 1's Neurology and Infectious Diseases is full with children infested by the disease. On April 20, the hospital received nearly 50 children. Dr. Truong Huu Khanh, head of the hospital said many inpatients were diagnosed at grade 3, and at grade 4, the highest level that can affect the lungs or even lead to death. Paralysis can also occur. Parents with young children should take preventive measures as the disease peaks in May, June, September and October, he said. There is no vaccine and specific treatment for the disease, he added.  Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common viral illness among children under 5 years old. As many as 95% of children diagnosed with the illness recover, but for more serious cases, complications such as pulmonary edema or paralysis can occur. In the case of children with complications that are not treated, they can die quickly. Khanh said that parents should learn the signs of the disease and take their children to the hospital for tests. Common signs include fever, reduced appetite, sore throat and rash on hands, feet and the diaper area. If they have the virus, they should stay at home until they recover to avoid transmission, Khanh said, adding that it was vital to isolate infected children in families to avoid transmission. (Vietnam News April 22)