AN INVESTIGATION AND MANAGEMENT OF OUTBREAK OF HAND FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE IN SOUTHERN INDIA
Abstract
Introduction: Hand foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a viral illness that mainly affects young children is mostly caused by Coxsackie A16 or Enterovirus 71. In India, HFMD outbreaks are uncommon. The authors report an outbreak of HFMD in Wellington, Dist Conoor (Tamilnadu) India recently.
Methods: Based on clinical parameters a case definition was adopted. Cases were recorded on structured case investigation forms. Laboratory diagnosis was done by using Enterovirus PCR in 5’non coding region and nucleotide sequencing of VP1.
Results: 101 children with the clinical diagnosis of HFMD reported to the hospital within 17 days. The age ranged from 10 months to 11 yrs and 5 months. HFMD started with fever and common cold/ nasal discharge. Mouth sores were present in 69 (68.3%) children, multiple vesiculopapular rash with erythematous base were observed over hands and feet in 88 (87.1%) and 83 (82.17%) cases respectively. Of the 34 various types of samples collected, 18 were found to be positive for Coxsackie A16.
Conclusion: An epidemic of HFMD swept through Dist Conoor due to Coxsackie A16 which was controlled by adopting simple yet effective measures. Early diagnosis and awareness about this highly contagious disease can help prevent and contain an epidemic.
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References
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