Bathing with green tea leaf water can help cleanse the skin and reduce discomfort if used correctly, but it does not treat hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD).

Green tea leaves contain compounds that cleanse and help reduce minor skin inflammation. However, children's skin is delicate and easily irritated. If using, select fresh, clean leaves free of chemical residues; wash them thoroughly, boil for about 5 minutes, let cool, and strain before bathing. Do not rub vigorously on areas with blisters or sores.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by enteroviruses and is common in young children. Most children experience mild symptoms and can be cared for at home under a doctor's guidance. However, some cases, particularly those involving the Enterovirus (EV71) strain, can progress severely and lead to neurological or respiratory complications if not detected early.

Green tea leaves can be used for bathing to help cleanse a child's skin and make them more comfortable, but they do not treat hand, foot, and mouth disease. Photo: Vecteezy

Therefore, parents must closely monitor children during the initial days of illness. Signs requiring immediate medical attention include: continuous high fever above 39 degrees Celsius that is difficult to reduce; frequent startling; lethargy, drowsiness, unusual fussiness; trembling limbs, unsteady gait, frequent vomiting, or abnormal breathing.

Feed children soft foods, ensure adequate hydration, gently clean their mouth and skin, and keep them home from school as per medical advice to limit spread. Do not apply medication, leaves, or folk remedies to sores without a doctor's prescription.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease can be caused by various virus strains, such as Coxsackie A16, A6, A10, or EV71. Children who have had the disease can be reinfected by different strains. Parents should maintain "three clean" hygiene practices: clean eating and drinking, frequent handwashing with soap, and regular cleaning of toys, floors, and objects children often touch.

The EV71 hand, foot, and mouth disease vaccine is licensed in Vietnam for children aged two months to under six years. The VNVC Vaccination System is completing procedures to deploy vaccinations soon. While awaiting this vaccine, parents should ensure children receive full vaccinations for influenza, pneumococcal disease, meningococcal disease, measles, and chickenpox to reduce the risk of other infectious diseases.

Doctor Bui Cong Su

Medical Manager, VNVC Vaccination System

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