Category Archives: Viruses

It’s Not to Late for a Flu Shot!

Flu season is rapidly approaching as the weather changes here in Michigan. As we walk through grocery stores, school halls, or malls we hear sneeze after sneeze, cough after cough, or see kids running around with runny noses. Sure, these may just be symptoms of a common cold, but as germs are spread, the flu virus may be on board!

It is recommended that everyone receive a flu shot to help prevent the flu this year. The occurrence of the flu is predicted to be more than last year. Ensuring that you are doing everything that you can to prevent yourself from getting the flu is important.

Contact our Westland Clinic – Millennium Medical Group today to schedule your flu shot or speak with a doctor about the flu shot today.

flu-shot in Westland

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!