Herpangina is a viral infection which is common in early childhood. It usually affects kids between the ages of 1 and 4. This condition makes the child irritable and uncomfortable.

Herpangina causes sores inside the mouth, sore throat and high fever.   Other symptoms  your child may experience include drooling, headaches, pain in the mouth and throat or decreased appetite . It can easily spread to other children through exposure to a sick child’s runny nose or saliva. This condition usually resolves within a week with no complications. However there is concerns of dehydration in the child due to pain involved in swallowing . You can use home remedies to treat the pain and discomfort.

How is herpangina treated ?

There are no drugs available to clear this infection. Since its a viral infection, antibiotics cannot be used. The aim is to treat symptoms and make the baby comfortable until  the infection clears.

• give the child  acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for fever or pain.  Don’t  give aspirin to a child  because of its link to Reye’s syndrome.
• increase the child’s fluid intake to reduce the risk of dehydration
• the child should get enough rest
• if the child is eating solids, offer bland foods

How can Herpangina be prevented ?

This condition is contagious and can easily spread to others. You can reduce the risk of spreading the infection by doing the following

• keep your child at home from daycare until he’s well
• wash your hand frequently
• wipe surfaces that your baby has come into contact with