Antibiotics are not indicated unless there is a complicating secondary skin infection. There are a number of potential remedies for the pain associated with the oral lesions that may cause the child to decrease oral intake. The above is mixed with a crushed Carafate tablet - swish and spit. A secondary skin infection is the main complication. These children can become mildly dehydrated, due to decreased oral intake, resulting from the discomfort of the oral lesions.
Patients have an excellent prognosis with full recovery anticipated.
Patients' families should be instructed on home monitoring of hydration status and on warning signs of potentially complicating secondary skin infections. The patient and family must be warned to minimize contact with the patient's oral and respiratory secretions for up to 2 wk. Good, compulsive handwashing is important to minimize the spread of disease. The virus may be present in the patient's feces for up to 1 mo. Medicine is a constantly changing science and not all therapies are clearly established.