Inland Empire health officials are warning people about an increase in hand, foot and mouth disease, a contagious illness that affects mostly babies and young children.
In Riverside County, the number of emergency room visits for young children with the disease is at its highest in the past two years, said Barbara Cole, director of disease control for Riverside University Health System – Public Health.
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More than 50 children 5 and younger were reported sick with the illness as of Sunday, Dec. 28. More than double those cases — over 100 — were reported in October and November, data from the county show.
In San Bernardino County, 38 outbreaks — defined as three or more confirmed linked cases of hand, foot and mouth disease occurring within three to five days — were reported as of Monday, Dec. 29, according to public health spokesperson Francis Delapaz.
The total number of cases was not immediately available, but the largest number of outbreaks (eight) was reported in San Bernardino, followed by Chino Hills (five).
Cole said red lesions on the palms of hands, soles of feet, or in the mouth are characteristic of the disease. They look like blisters and can drain or secrete. The virus is usually spread through respiratory droplets.
“Little ones touch everything, and it can spread that way,” Cole said. “The child could have it, wipe their nose, sneeze, wash their hands, touch surfaces and other kids. There’s no vaccine, so the key to prevention is really being aware.”
San Bernardino County public health officials said in a news release that the viral disease is especially common in group settings such as schools and daycare, but is usually mild. Most children recover on their own in seven to 10 days.
“Parents and guardians are encouraged to have children stay at home when sick,” San Bernardino County Health Officer Dr. Sharon Wang said in the release. “This simple precaution significantly reduces the risk of further transmission.”
Symptoms include fever, mouth sores and rash on the hands and feet, health officials said.
The illness “spreads through contact with droplets (i.e., saliva, mucus), kissing, sharing cups or eating utensils, contact with fluid from blisters, contaminated stool and objects and surfaces that have been contaminated,” the release states.
Outbreaks have been identified across the country since late August, according to reports. There have been no reports of deaths, officials from both Inland counties said.
Officials from UC Riverside Health said in a news release that adults can also catch hand, foot and mouth disease, but is most common in children under 5.
Dr. E. Caroline McGowan, an assistant clinical professor of pediatrics at the UC Riverside School of Medicine, said in the release that the disease is a mild illness caused by common viruses, typically strains of enteroviruses, that lead to cold-like symptoms including fever, mild runny nose, rash or sores.
The contagious illness tends to follow seasonal patterns with peak activity in late spring, late summer and early fall, McGowan said in the release.
Most children recover from mild illness or rash within 10 days, though others can develop more extensive rashes that can take two to three weeks to fully resolve, McGowan said.
Cole, of Riverside University Health System, said daycares and school settings with groups of children should have disinfecting and cleaning standards and attendance policies if kids are sick.
San Bernardino County public health officials said those experiencing symptoms should stay home until all of the following conditions are met:
- They have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without using fever-reducing medications.
- Mouth sores have healed.
- There is no uncontrolled drooling.
- Blisters have dried up or scabbed over, and rashes have started to heal.
- If they feel well enough to participate in normal activities.
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help ease symptoms for adults or children, along with getting plenty of rest and fluids, health officials said.
Aspirin should not be given to children unless instructed by a doctor, due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, they added.
Eating and drinking cold foods and fluids can also soothe mouth discomfort. Soft, cold foods such as Pedialyte popsicles, yogurt, smoothies, chilled purees can be soothing for kids. Saltwater rinses can soothe a sore throat and keep blisters clean and dry. Any child with severe symptoms, or who is dehydrated, has trouble swallowing, or refuses to walk because of pain should see a doctor.
To prevent the spread of hand, foot and mouth disease, county health officials encourage proper hand-washing and hygiene techniques, especially before preparing food, after coughing and sneezing or using the restroom. Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces — such as door handles, toys, light switches, or toilets — or play areas using a bleach-water solution. Thoroughly disinfect and rinse any toys, utensils and dishes with a bleach solution. Avoid sharing utensils or having close contact with anyone sick.
Health officials said the public health department should be called if three or more confirmed or probable hand, foot and mouth cases occur within three to five days and are linked to a common setting, such as a single classroom, team, group or event.
The California Department of Public Health provides guidance for schools and daycares on how to prevent the spread of illness on its website.
y Public Health: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.: 800-722-4794. After hours, weekends and holidays: 800-472-2376