Answer:

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is currently in its peak season, with over 1,000 cases reported weekly in Ho Chi Minh City. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets, ingestion of virus-containing feces, or direct contact with fluid from blisters.

Young children, particularly those under 5 years old, are at high risk of contracting HFMD. Notably, many cases have resulted in severe complications such as meningitis, and some have even been fatal.

For a 3-year-old child, blisters on the hands and feet could indicate HFMD, especially if accompanied by mouth ulcers, loss of appetite, or drooling. However, blisters can also be symptoms of other conditions like allergies, eczema, chickenpox, or shingles.

Chickenpox is highly contagious, spreading easily through respiratory droplets or contact with blister fluid. Approximately 90% of individuals without immunity will become infected upon close contact. Young children face a higher risk, especially when attending preschool, in crowded environments, or when exposed to infected family members.

If a child has a blistering rash on their hands and feet, parents should take them to a doctor for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment. *Vecteezy*.

To ensure safety, parents should take their child to the nearest medical facility for a professional examination, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate treatment. It is crucial not to self-medicate, apply traditional herbal remedies, or attempt to rupture blisters based on unverified folk practices.

Additionally, parents should maintain good hygiene for their child, ensure adequate nutrition, and closely monitor for any unusual signs such as high fever, sudden startling, lethargy, or excessive crying, which warrant an immediate hospital visit. Parents should also ensure their child receives all age-appropriate vaccines to prevent diseases and severe complications.

Currently, Vietnam offers various chickenpox vaccines for both children and adults. The earliest vaccination can be administered to infants from 9 months old. Completing the two-dose regimen provides over 97% efficacy in preventing the disease.

Regarding the hand, foot, and mouth disease vaccine, which has been approved for use by the Ministry of Health, VNVC is actively expediting procedures to make it available for public vaccination soon.

Doctor Pham Van Phu

Medical Manager, VNVC Vaccination System

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