Coxsackievirus-HELP!
Nparkin
nparkin at aol.com
Sat Sep 2 23:05:23 EST 1995
Dear fellow virology netters,
I am a relative newcomer to the virology field (I work on influenza
virus). I am also the father of two virus reservoirs/vectors, aged 4 and 5
1/2. About a week ago, my older son came down with a high fever (104 F),
sore throat, and vomiting. Our pediatrician also noted that he had several
blisters on his throat. Later we noticed several sores in his mouth,
reminiscent of cold sores caused by HSV-1 (nut only inside his mouth, on
his tongue and cheeks; his gums are also bleeding). After several
consultations and a browse through Fields' Virology text, we have
concluded that he has a coxsackievirus (A1-6, 8, 10, or 22 according to
Fields), and the symptoms are collectively called herpangina. His mouth is
so sore he has trouble eating. Tonight my younger son started a fever as
well. As his temperament is not as easy-going as my older son, I am
worried enough to prompt this quest for additional information. Does
anyone know about any anti-virals on the market that do any good? I have
never heard of anything for polio, for example, so I would be surprised if
there was a broad anti-picorna drug that works. Failing that, does anyone
have any suggestions about treatments for the sores that will make my
kids' lives (and ours) easier?
Thanks.
A concerend parent and virologist,
Neil.
Neil Parkin
nparkin at aol.com
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