Coxsackie viruses can be passed from person to person on unwashed hands and surfaces contaminated by feces. When an outbreak of coxsackie virus affects a community, risk for infection is highest among very young children. Older children may be exposed to coxsackie virus infections in summer camps and child care centers. The incubation period for most coxsackie virus infections is about 2 to 10 days. There is no vaccine to prevent coxsackie virus infection.
Hand washing is the best prevention.
Remind the members of your family to wash their hands frequently, especially after using the toilet, after changing a diaper, before meals, and before preparing food. Most children with coxsackie virus infection recover completely in a few days. Depending on the type of infection and symptoms, your child's doctor may prescribe medications to make her feel more comfortable. The most severe forms of coxsackie virus infection, myocarditis and encephalitis, can be fatal, especially in newborns. Even older children with coxsackie myocarditis or encephalitis may need special care in a hospital.