How is hand, foot, and mouth disease caused, and is it serious?

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a contagious illness caused by enteroviruses, primarily transmitted through the digestive tract, respiratory tract, or close contact. Contributing factors include poor hygiene in children, contact with virus-contaminated objects, and infection in crowded settings. The severity of HFMD varies among individuals. Most cases are mild, characterized by scattered papules and vesicles on the hands, feet, mouth, buttocks, and varying degrees of fever. Patients typically recover within a week and the condition is generally not severe. However, some severe cases may develop serious complications such as neurological involvement and cardiopulmonary failure, which can even be life-threatening. Parents should therefore pay sufficient attention to HFMD. Once a child shows related symptoms, prompt medical attention should be sought to avoid delayed treatment.