Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is caused primarily by viruses from the enterovirus family, most commonly coxsackievirus A16. Other viruses that can cause HFMD include coxsackievirus A6, enterovirus 71 (EV-A71), and various other coxsackievirus strains
. These viruses are highly contagious and spread easily from person to person through:
- Contact with nose and throat secretions such as saliva, mucus, or droplets from coughs and sneezes
- Contact with fluid from blisters caused by the disease
- Contact with feces (poop), especially during diaper changes or poor hand hygiene
- Touching contaminated surfaces or objects and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth
HFMD mostly affects young children under age 7 and is common in settings like childcare centers, preschools, and schools where close contact occurs
. The incubation period is typically 3 to 6 days after exposure to the virus
. In summary, HFMD is caused by several types of enteroviruses, especially coxsackievirus A16, and spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces
