COXSACKIE VIRUS

COXSACKIE VIRUS

Overview and Facts

Coxsackie virus is a virus that may result in the acquisition of the hand, foot, and mouth disease. Not only that, but this may even cause diseases in the muscular, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems.

Furthermore, coxsackievirus spreads from person to person. The virus exists in the body fluids and secretions of an infected individual. Hence, the virus may be transmitted through:

  • Saliva
  • Throat discharge
  • Nasal secretions
  • Sneezing or coughing
  • Stool

Types and Symptoms

TYPES

  • Type A virus. This type causes herpangina or painful sores in the mouth, throat, feet, and hands. Also, this type is common among children. The condition disappears on its own. However, it may cause some problems if the child can’t eat or drink due to pain. 
  • Type B virus. This type causes uncommon, sudden outbreaks of spasms and fever of the chest and abdominal muscles. 

Both types of coxsackievirus may cause more serious symptoms, such as meningitis, pericarditis, and myocarditis. However, these cases are mostly rare. 

SYMPTOMS

The most common symptoms of coxsackievirus include:

  • Fever
  • Respiratory diseases such as cough and sore throat
  • Feeling of tiredness
  • Poor appetite
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Painful sores in mouth, hands, feet, and throat

The incubation period of this virus typically lasts around 1 to 2 days. The person may develop painful sores in the mouth a day after the beginning of fever and may develop tiny blisters that are frequently inflamed. Almost infected individuals are developing a rash that irritates or itches the hands, feet, and palms.

These signs and symptoms normally last around 7 to 10 days, and the infected person generally recovers totally. Nevertheless, even when the symptoms disappear, the affected person will still be contagious for a few weeks. 

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

Patients are typically diagnosed by physical examination. Clinically, sores that are inflamed or painful, commonly on the feet, mouth, and hands of a child or infant with fever, are diagnosed with coxsackie virus.

For rare cases, a viral test is needed to determine the virus. However, this test is costly, and the result takes about two weeks.

TREATMENT

There is still no specific treatment for coxsackie virus. However, over-the-counter medications may lessen discomfort and fever. Also, sprays, mouthwashes, and fluids may help reduce oral irritation and pain. 

Prevention for this disease is difficult. Therefore, avoiding direct contact with someone infected by coxsackievirus will be helpful. 

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