Doctors see hand, foot and mouth disease uptick in DMV day cares

Pediatricians in the D.C. area are reporting an uptick in cases of hand, foot and mouth disease at day cares.

The viral illness is common among children under age 5 but anyone can get it. Symptoms include a fever, sore throat and a red rash in the areas in its name.

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“When kids have hand, foot and mouth disease, they get mouth sores that can be really painful, and so they may not want to eat or drink, so it's very important for parents to make sure their kids stay hydrated,” said Dr. Christina Johns, a pediatric emergency physician with IKS Health in Annapolis.

Most patients have minor symptoms for seven to 10 days and typically recover at home. Tylenol and ibuprofen can help manage the fever and pain.

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