- Doctors in the eastern United States are reporting an unusual surge in hand, foot and mouth disease cases this summer, particularly in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Virginia.
- While typically around 200,000 cases are reported annually with summer and autumn spikes, medical professionals note a significantly higher number this year, though the exact reason for the increase remains unknown.
- The highly contagious viral illness, common in children under five, causes symptoms including a painful red rash, blister-like lesions, fever, and mouth sores.
- The disease spreads easily in environments like daycares and schools, and through contact with bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces.
- Most cases are not serious and resolve within 7 to 10 days, with treatment focusing on hydration and pain relief, though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not require mandatory reporting of cases.
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