A Guide to Clinical Management and Public Health Response for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)

Book excerpt: Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common infectious disease caused by a group of enteroviruses, including coxsackievirus A16 (CA16) and enterovirus 71 (EV71). Over the last decade, many outbreaks of HFMD have been reported in countries of the Western Pacific Region. HFMD caused by EV71 is of particular concern because of the increased number of deaths associated with infection. Until now, there has been little guidance on HFMD caused by EV71. This publication provides practical support for the treatment, prevention and control of HFMD based on the most recent scientific literature and the current understanding and experiences of international experts. It is intended as a resource for both clinicians working with HFMD cases on a regular basis and for public health personnel who are responsible for preventing and responding to outbreaks of HFMD.