Sanitation reduces risk of viral infection Published July 13, 2012 By Staff Sgt. Daryl Knee 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- A contagious viral infection is affecting infants and children here. More than 30 cases of hand, foot and mouth disease have been confirmed by the 52nd Medical Group since May 31, and medical professionals recommend heightened sanitation efforts to reduce the risks of contracting the illness. "Hand, foot and mouth disease is not life threatening," said Maj. Anthony Davis, 52nd Aerospace Medicine Squadron Public Health Flight commander. "If anything, it's more of an annoyance. However, it is a viral infection, so the illness needs to run its course. And, unfortunately, it's one of those things that goes around." The symptoms include fever, sore throat and general tiredness. Also, blisters or rashes may appear on hands, feet, knees, elbows, buttocks or genitals. Medication can treat the symptoms but cannot cure the infection. Davis said that the illness usually resolves itself from between seven to 10 days. "The symptoms can be worse for some people," said Staff Sgt. Ashley Martin, 52nd AMDS NCO in charge of community health. "It can affect hydration or eating -- the sores can make it difficult to swallow. Parents should be aware to adjust eating habits of their children." Martin has been working with the base's child development center to educate the staff there, develop checklists and create information packets for parents to take home. Children who have the infection may still stay at the CDC unless they appear feverish, which is an exclusion criterion for attendance. Davis suggests parents educate themselves further by visiting the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at http://www.cdc.gov/Features/HandFootMouthDisease. "Just stay calm," Davis said to parents. "The only thing you can do is make sure your children are medicated for the fever and pain, and then let it run its course. Remember to wash your hands frequently." Hand, foot and mouth disease should not be confused with foot-and-mouth disease, which affects cattle, sheep and swine. For more information, call the public health office at DSN 452-8308 or 06565-61-8308.