Rising cases of HFMD have been reported in Guwahati and other parts of Assam in 2025. 

• Health authorities have not yet issued an official outbreak advisory, despite a visible surge in cases. 
• Second infections and atypical symptoms (more severe rashes) have been reported — suggesting mutation or evolution of the circulating strain.
  

What is HFMD?

• Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection that primarily affects infants and young children, usually under 10 years of age.
• It is caused by viruses belonging to the Enterovirus genus, most commonly Coxsackievirus A16 (CVA16) and Enterovirus 71 (EV71).
• Recently, the CVA6 strain has been reported in Assam — this strain has also caused major outbreaks in China (2012) and Finland (2008).

Transmission

• HFMD spreads through:
  • Direct contact with nasal secretions, saliva, or blister fluid of infected persons.
  • Respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
  • Contaminated surfaces or objects (fomites).
• The disease is highly contagious, especially in preschools and primary schools.

Symptoms

• Fever, sore throat, and malaise (initial symptoms).
• Appearance of painful red blisters or rashes on the hands, feet, mouth, and sometimes buttocks.
• Loss of appetite, irritability, and dehydration (due to mouth ulcers).
• In rare cases, neurological complications (encephalitis, meningitis) may occur, especially with EV71 infection.

Diagnosis

• Usually clinical, based on symptoms and physical examination.
• Laboratory confirmation can be done using:
  • RT-PCR test to detect enteroviruses.
  • Viral culture or serology, if necessary.

Treatment

• No specific antiviral treatment available.
• Supportive care includes:
  • Hydration and rest.
  • Pain relievers (Paracetamol/Ibuprofen).
  • Topical oral gels to relieve mouth ulcers.
• The disease typically resolves within 7–10 days.

Global Context

• China, Taiwan, and Malaysia have reported cyclical outbreaks of HFMD, with severe surges every few years.
• HFMD surveillance is part of global enterovirus monitoring coordinated by the World Health Organization (WHO).
• Research is ongoing for a multivalent vaccine targeting CVA6, CVA16, and EV71.
  

Statement-Based MCQ

Q. Consider the following statements regarding Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD):

1. HFMD is caused by a bacterial pathogen primarily affecting the respiratory system.
   
2. The Coxsackievirus A16 and Enterovirus 71 are common causative agents of HFMD.
   
3. The disease spreads through contact with infected secretions, droplets, or surfaces.
   
4. A specific antiviral treatment and vaccine are widely available for HFMD.
   

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3, and 4 only
(d) 2, 3, and 4 only

Answer: (b) 

SOURCE