‘Hand, Foot and Mouth’ Disease Common in the Summer

A virus known as “Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease” (HFMD) that is common in the summer has been seen in some parts of San Diego, according to medical experts.

The virus includes symptoms such as fever, sore throat, loss of appetite, sores in the mouth and a skin rash that usually appears on the hands or feet, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The disease is mainly found in infants and children younger than five years old and spreads like the common cold through saliva or mucus.

“For the vast majority of patients it ends up being a summer cold. You're going to feel like you have a flu essentially. [You’re] going to feel out of sorts with a sore throat,” explained Dr. Bema Bonsu, Chief of Pediatric Emergency Medicine at Rady Children’s Hospital.

According to Bonsu, adults are also able to contract HFMD.

“Most adults have had it at some point. It's fairly common but especially in adults who are immune- compromised -- so those who don't have a really strong immune system -- are susceptible to this infection. They generally have same symptoms,” said Bemu.

Doctors said the incubation period is between three and seven days when the virus is contagious.