How to Treat Coxsackie Virus

The Coxsackie virus (also called Coxsackievirus) causes sore throat and flu-like symptoms. In most cases, the virus causes no symptoms, or minor symptoms which disappear without treatment in about a week. The most common disease caused by the virus is Hand, Foot and Mouth disease. Antibiotics are not used to fight a Coxsackie virus infection since they only work against bacterial infections. Children are more likely to be infected than adults.

Things You'll Need

• acetaminophen or ibuprophen
• salt
• sore throat spray
• soft foods
• low-acid fluids

Instructions

1. Call your doctor. There is no antibiotic for Coxsackie viruses, but the doctor may prescribe medicine to make your child feel better. It's also a good idea to talk to your doctor to rule out other illnesses.

2. Administer acetaminophen or ibuprophen to reduce fever, and relieve aches and pains. Be sure to check with the doctor first and follow the product's dosage information.

3. Have toys, books, movies and other quiet entertainment on hand for a feverish child seeking something to ease boredom. Encourage the child to rest in bed or play quietly indoors even if he has no other symptoms.

4. Offer plenty of liquids, especially low-acid drinks like water and apple juice, fruit popsicles and Pedialyte products..

5. Watch for dehydration. The child should urinate at least three times a day, and exhibit no signs of dryness around the mouth or lips. In an infant, look for fewer tears when crying and no wet diapers for three hours or longer. Call your doctor if the child refuses fluid or if you suspect he is dehydrated.

6. Use a salt water gargle, sore throat spray, and other remedies to reduce throat pain. For a salt water gargle, mix one teaspoon salt with eight ounces of water.

7. Give cool compresses and cool baths to a child who feels hot.

8. Change damp clothing and bed clothes as needed to keep the child more comfortable.

9. Prepare or buy soft foods to feed the sick child as they are easier on the throat and stomach than other knids of foods. These may include cooled soups, soggy or cooked cereal, bananas and other soft fruits, pudding and Jello.