Hand, foot, and mouth disease is primarily caused by which virus?

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is primarily caused by the Coxsackie virus A16. This viral infection is most commonly seen in young children and is characterized by sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet. The Coxsackie virus A16 is part of a group of viruses known as enteroviruses, which are known to cause various infections, including hand, foot, and mouth disease.

While Enterovirus 71 can also cause hand, foot, and mouth disease and is notable for being associated with more severe complications, Coxsackie virus A16 is the most frequent culprit in typical cases. This virus is particularly prevalent in outbreaks, especially during the warmer months.

Herpes simplex virus does not typically cause this disease; rather, it leads to cold sores and oral lesions. Similarly, human papillomavirus is primarily associated with warts and cervical cancer, and it does not relate to hand, foot, and mouth disease. Understanding the specific viruses that cause hand, foot, and mouth disease can help with diagnosis and management of the infection in affected populations.