Category Archives: Disease

Why You Must Get Vaccinated

Diseases that were almost extinct are resurfacing because people are not getting vaccinated. The measles is one of them. Symptoms for the measles can appear around 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. The symptoms for measles include fever, sore throat, runny nose, inflamed eyes, and dry cough. Other physical symptoms include a skin rash with large flat blotches and tiny white spots with light red centers inside of the mouth. The complications from measles includes pneumonia , ear infection, encephalitis, bronchitis or pregnancy problems. This all can be prevented by a simple vaccination.

vaccinations in MichiganThe new measles outbreak at Disneyland is raising questions about the measles virus and implications of vaccinations.  Vaccinations save lives! The benefits of vaccinations far out way the minuscule negative side effects from them. Before vaccinations in Michigan are given to children, they go under careful review by scientists and healthcare professionals to ensure that they are safe. The pain , redness, or tenderness at the vaccination site is minimal compared to the pain and discomfort from diseases. Getting vaccinated does not only protect you, but it protects the children who are not old enough for vaccinations. Get vaccinated at Westland Clinic in Michigan!

 

 

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

As kids have returned to school, and infants or toddlers have returned to daycare, we have had many parents become concerned about Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease. Many children in Michigan have developed this contagious disease, and we want to ensure you know what you should about Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease.

What is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?

Also known as HFMD, Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is most common among children or toddlers ranging from infant to five years old, although children off all ages can develop HFMD. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is contagious, usually infecting most children between spring and fall.

HFMD Symptoms

Early symptoms of HFMD include fever, sore throat, or hand-sanitizerreduction in appetite. You may notice your child seems to be feeling unwell. Within 24-48 hours, the mouth may develop painful sores, a flat red skin rash may appear on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. Sometimes a blistered rash will appear on the buttocks, knees or elbow, this rash shouldn’t itch.

There is no prevention or treatment for HFMD. Most who have been infected will get better without medical treatment in 7-10 days. Majority of cases are not severe, but there have been reports of complications leading to other problems such as Menegitis. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is very contagious.

How is Hand, Foor, and Mouth Disease spread?

  • kissing, hugging, sharing utensils or cups
  • contact with blister fluid
  • touching surfaces or objects with the virus on them
  • sneezing or coughing
  • contact with feces

HFMD is most contagious during the first week that someone is infected. Some people, including adults who are infected may not show symptoms but can still spread the disease.

There is no specific treatment for HFMD or a vaccine to prevent it. You can help prevent the spread of this disease by disinfecting surfaces, frequently washing hands, avoid kissing or hugging those who may be infected, and avoid touching mouth, nose, or eyes without washing your hands before.

If you have any questions about Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease please contact our medical professionals at Millennium Medical Group. We will be happy to discuss your concerns!