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Singapore Flu in Children, Recognize the Symptoms and Prevention

In recent days, several diseases have emerged and the number of cases of sufferers is increasing, one of which is Singapore flu. This article will discuss the meaning, causes, symptoms and prevention of Singapore flu. 

Understanding Singapore Flu 

Singapore flu is a viral infection that causes mouth ulcers and blisters on the skin. In medical terms, this condition is called hand, foot and mouth disease. Singapore flu is a disease that is easily transmitted and often affects children aged 5-10 years. Although it more often attacks children, Singapore flu can also attack adults. 


Singapore Flu Symptoms 

The initial symptoms of Singapore flu appear 3-6 days after a person is infected with the virus. Generally, sufferers will experience a fever or sore throat, then canker sores, rashes and blisters will appear on the hands and feet. Singapore flu sufferers can experience the following symptoms:

    Fever

    Sore throat

    Loss of appetite

    A red rash that doesn't feel itchy, sometimes accompanied by blisters on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet and buttocks 

    Fussy 

    Abdominal pain

    Cough
Causes of Singapore Flu 

Singapore flu is generally caused by strains of coxsackievirus. This virus can spread easily from one person to another. This type of virus is transmitted to the tissue in the mouth, around the tonsils and into the digestive system. Ultimately, this disease will spread throughout the body through the bloodstream. Singapore flu can spread in various ways from one sufferer to another, including:

    Fluid from the nose or throat that comes out when sneezing

    Saliva or spit that is thrown into the air when coughing

    The fluid that comes from the blisters

    Surfaces of objects that have been contaminated by dirt (feces) 

This disease is also susceptible to occurring in child care. This is because these children regularly change diapers and do toilet training. When this is done, the child may put their hand in their mouth. Even after the child recovers, the virus remains in the body for several weeks. This means it can still infect other people.

Singapore Flu Prevention

To reduce the risk of spreading Singapore flu, there are several things you can do, namely:

    Routinely clean areas suspected of being contaminated with viruses

    Don't kiss a sick child

    Avoid using various equipment or items from people with Singapore flu

    Isolating Singaporean flu sufferers until they are declared cured.

    Wash your hands regularly with soap.

    Teach children how to maintain cleanliness by not putting anything in their mouths before washing their hands.

Reference :

Mayo Clinic. Diakses pada 2024. Hand-foot-and-mouth disease.

Cleveland Clinic. Diakses pada 2024. Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease


 

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