How is the virus spread?
Coxsackie viruses are spread through close personal contact. This can occur when there is direct contact with nose, throat, and fecal discharges of infected persons.

Who gets coxsackie virus?
Anyone can be infected, but the disease seems to occur predominately in children under ten years of age.

When can a person spread the virus to to others?
A person may spread the virus to to others just prior to the onset of symptoms, during the acute stage of illness and perhaps longer, since this virus may persist in the stool for several weeks. The incubation period is usually 3-5 days.

What are the symptoms and when do they appear?
Symptoms develop three to five days after exposure. Most children will complain of a sore throat or sore mouth and loss of appetite. Fever of 101-102 lasts 1-2 days and is usually accompanied by sores in the mouth. Sores can also occur on the hands and feet and occasionally on the buttocks. The illness is mild and lasts one week or less.

What is the treatment?
At this time, there is no specific treatment.

What can be done to prevent the spread of this disease?
Particular attention should be paid to hand washing and personal hygiene.

This fact sheet is for informational purposes only. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or as a substitute for consultation with a health care provider. If you think that you may have this infection, or have questions about the disease described above, you should consult your health care provider.

For additional information on this disease, visit the Centers or Disease Control and Prevention website.