In rare cases, consultation could be indicated with a pediatrician or pediatric subspecialist. Patient education is indicated to avoid spread of this highly contagious infection. Shedding of the viruses occurs without evidence of infection. Spread can occur between mother and child, and rates of infection typically are highest where hygiene is deficient. Patient education should include counseling and treatment.
Humans are the sole host for the enteroviruses.
The virus spreads easily through fecal-oral channels. Hygiene, education, and avoidance are the most effective preventive measures available. The use of topical steroids in cases of AHC was found to be a significant cause of microbial superinfection of the cornea. Neurologic sequelae of AHC have been described, but they are seen only in 1 case per 10,000 infections. This infection runs a rapid, self-limited course with good visual prognosis.