Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a contagious virus affecting young children and adults. It’s more common in gatherings like summer camps, schools, and play groups, where it spreads rapidly. Recently, there has been an increase in cases at local urgent care facilities.
Although HFMD appears as a mild illness, its symptoms can be alarming – including angry red rashes on palms and sores in the mouth. Some people, like one healthcare worker, find the concept of HFMD repulsive and avoid patients with possible cases.
The virus, known as Coxsackie A16, belongs to a group of enteroviruses that cause HFMD. Diagnosis is made through visual examination of symptoms, which are easily identifiable. Testing is usually not necessary, but it’s available for those who need it. HFMD predominantly affects children under 5 years old, but adults can also contract it.
Source: https://www.masslive.com/westfieldnews/2025/08/westfield-health-bulletin-rashes-and-sores-are-more-common-than-you-think.html