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Published on: July 15, 2019
A Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreak in an Atypical Population of College Students
Nancy G Russell1, Roanna Kessler1
1Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Abstract:
Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD), which is typically seen in the younger pediatric population, is uncommon in older adolescent and young adult populations. We report on an atypical outbreak of HFMD among college students at a mid-size university in the mid-Atlantic U.S. The outbreak included 138 qualifying cases of HFMD among students at the institution between August and November 2018. All tested samples were positive for CVA6, a less common cause of HFMD. Signs and symptoms and campus mitigation strategies are described. This case report aims to highlight an atypical outbreak of HFMD for clinicians who care for older adolescent and college-aged patients in primary care and community settings, and may see cases and/or outbreaks of HFMD in these populations.
Insights
Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) is rare in young adults. This report details an unusual CVA6-caused HFMD outbreak among 138 college students, offering insights for clinicians.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) typically affects pediatric populations.
- HFMD is infrequently observed in adolescents and young adults.
- Outbreaks in college settings are uncommon but significant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an atypical outbreak of HFMD in college students.
- To identify the causative agent and describe clinical presentations.
- To inform clinicians about HFMD in older adolescent and young adult populations.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case review of HFMD cases among university students.
- Epidemiological data collection from August to November 2018.
- Laboratory testing of samples to identify the viral strain.
Main Results:
- 138 qualifying cases of HFMD were identified.
- All tested samples were positive for Coxsackievirus A6 (CVA6).
- The outbreak occurred in a mid-size university in the mid-Atlantic U.S.
Conclusions:
- CVA6 can cause significant HFMD outbreaks in college-aged populations.
- Clinicians should consider HFMD in adolescents and young adults presenting with characteristic symptoms.
- Understanding atypical HFMD presentations is crucial for effective public health management in university settings.
