KOTDWAR: Changing weather conditions are being linked to a rise in hand, foot and mouth disease symptoms among young children in Kotdwar. Hospitals are receiving 5–7 affected children daily for treatment, according to the report.

The cases are being seen mainly among children aged up to 5. Temperatures have reportedly been falling during the morning and evening, while afternoons remain warm. This difference between daytime and nighttime conditions is affecting children’s health.

Symptoms reported among children

Children arriving for treatment are showing red spots and rashes on their palms, the soles of their feet, and around the mouth and lips. Fever and reduced appetite have also been reported.

Paediatrician Dr Harendra Kumar described hand, foot and mouth disease as an infectious viral illness that mainly affects young children. He said the infection can spread through contact with an infected child.

Dr Kumar said a lack of awareness and failure to follow necessary precautions may be contributing to the spread among children. The report does not identify a specific hospital or provide laboratory-confirmed case numbers.

Advice for parents and schools

Parents have been advised to focus on children’s cleanliness and diet. The recommended precautions include:

  • Have children wash their hands with soap at regular intervals.
  • Maintain children’s personal hygiene and pay attention to their food and diet.
  • Keep infected children away from other children at home and in school.
  • Seek medical advice without delay when symptoms appear.

These steps are intended to reduce contact-based transmission and support timely medical attention. Parents should consult a doctor if a child develops the reported rashes, fever or reduced appetite.

Conclusion

Kotdwar is seeing 5–7 children daily with symptoms associated with hand, foot and mouth disease. Hygiene, separation of infected children and timely medical consultation are the key precautions advised in the report.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Which children are mainly affected?

The cases are mainly being reported among children aged up to 5.

Q. How many children are reaching hospitals each day?

Hospitals are receiving 5–7 children daily for treatment related to the reported infection.

Q. What are the main symptoms?

Reported symptoms include red spots or rashes on the palms, soles, mouth and lips, along with fever and reduced appetite.

Q. Is hand, foot and mouth disease infectious?

Yes. Dr Harendra Kumar described it as an infectious viral disease that can spread through contact with an infected child.

Q. What hygiene step has been advised?

Children should wash their hands with soap at regular intervals, while parents should maintain their personal hygiene and diet.

Q. Should infected children attend school?

The advice is to keep infected children away from other children at home and in school.

Q. When should parents seek medical advice?

Parents should seek medical advice without delay when the reported symptoms appear.