Foot and mouth disease in humans is a rare infectious disease caused by a virus of the genus Aphthovirus that can occur when unsteurized milk is consumed from infected animals.This disease is most common in rural areas and children, the elderly and people with low immunity are more susceptible to infection.
Foot and mouth disease can be seen with skin, mouth and finger injuries, as well as high fever and muscle aches, for example.
- Transmission occurs mainly through direct contact with the animal infected with the virus responsible for the disease.
- But can also occur from ingestion of un pasteurized milk.
- Consumption of meat from an infected animal and contact with secretions such as milk.
- Semen.
- Phlegm or sneezing that they can transmit.
- Foot-and-mouth disease in humans.
Symptoms of foot-and-mouth disease in humans may appear up to 5 days after contact with the virus, with the main symptoms being:
The symptoms of foot and mouth disease usually go away after 3 to 5 days. However, in more advanced cases, the infection can cause other problems and reach the throat and lungs, leading to serious complications and even death.
Diagnosis of foot-and-mouth disease is done by physical examination, oral lesion assessment, and blood tests for infection.
Treatment of foot and mouth disease in humans is not specific and is based on the use of painkillers, such as dipirone, or corticosteroids, such as prednisolone, in case of severe inflammation of the throat or lungs.
Cleaning skin and mouth sores is very important to improve lesions and speed up their healing, drinking lots of fluids and resting is important for the treatment of the disease.Learn more about treating foot-and-mouth disease in humans.
The prevention of foot-and-mouth disease in humans is done by avoiding contact with infected animals, drinking un pasteurized milk and contaminated meat.If an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease is suspected in animals near the individual’s workplace or home, animal slaughter is recommended.