Coxsackievirus is a type of enterovirus that belongs to a group of viruses known as picornaviruses. It is a common cause of infection, particularly in children, and can lead to a variety of symptoms ranging from mild to severe. There are two main types of Coxsackievirus: Group A and Group B, each of which is associated with different illnesses.

Types of Coxsackievirus

  1. Group A Coxsackievirus (CVA)
    • Commonly causes hand, foot, and mouth disease, a contagious illness characterized by fever, sores in the mouth, and a rash with blisters.

    • Can also cause herpangina (mouth blisters), acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, and aseptic meningitis.

  2. Group B Coxsackievirus (CVB)
    • Often leads to illnesses affecting the heart (myocarditis), lungs (pleurodynia), pancreas (can contribute to the onset of diabetes), and meninges (meningitis).

    • Can also cause mild respiratory illness or flu-like symptoms.

Transmission and Spread

Coxsackieviruses are highly contagious and can be spread through:

  • Direct contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person (e.g., through coughing or sneezing).

  • Contact with feces, such as changing diapers or using a toilet and then touching your face without washing hands.

  • Contact with surfaces or objects that have been contaminated with the virus, followed by touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Coxsackievirus infections can vary but may include:

  • Fever

  • Sore throat

  • Rash

  • Blister-like lesions on the hands, feet, and mouth (in hand, foot, and mouth disease)

  • Headache

  • Muscle aches

  • Fatigue

  • Abdominal pain

  • Chest pain or palpitations (in cases of myocarditis or pericarditis)

Treatment and Prevention

There is no specific antiviral medication for Coxsackievirus infections. Treatment generally focuses on relieving symptoms:

  • Rest

  • Fluids to stay hydrated

  • Over-the-counter pain and fever reducers

Preventive measures include:

  • Good hand hygiene

  • Avoiding close contact with infected individuals

  • Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces

Most Coxsackievirus infections are mild and self-limiting, resolving on their own without complications. However, in some cases, especially with certain strains of the virus, more severe complications can occur. Vaccines are not currently available for Coxsackievirus infections.