In Russia, children are contracting the Coxsackie virus: Should Kazakhstanis be worried?

Tengrinews.kz - In seven regions of Russia, cases of the Coxsackie virus have been reported. Tengrinews.kz correspondent found out whether Kazakhstan is monitoring the virus and if there is any reason for concern.
Immunization consultant and biologist Asel Musabekova explains that the Coxsackie virus is well-known and has been around for a long time. It belongs to the enterovirus group and usually causes no complications.

"The Coxsackie virus causes a disease commonly called 'hand-foot-and-mouth disease.' Outbreaks are more common during the summer and fall when children return to schools and kindergartens," says Musabekova.

The virus is transmitted through the fecal-oral route (i.e., via dirty hands, utensils, or unwashed fruits) and by airborne droplets. The last outbreak occurred in the summer of 2025 in Turkey, where 15 Russian tourists contracted the virus at a hotel.
Adults rarely get infected. Children between the ages of one and ten are most commonly affected.
The main symptoms include:

Small blister-like rashes on the palms, soles, and around the mouth (hence the name "hand-foot-and-mouth")
Painful sores in the mouth
Sometimes fever, weakness, and loss of appetite

Asel Musabekova says that the illness usually progresses mildly. The child recovers in about 7-10 days. Doctors recommend symptomatic treatment, including plenty of fluids, fever reducers if necessary, and oral care.
Is the Coxsackie Virus in Kazakhstan?
The Committee for Sanitary and Epidemiological Control of the Ministry of Health stated that they are monitoring the situation in Russia and tracking the Coxsackie virus within Kazakhstan.

"Currently, there have been no cases of the Coxsackie virus in Kazakhstan," the committee stated. "There is no reason for concern."

Sanitary experts recommend following standard preventive measures: washing hands more frequently, avoiding eating unwashed fruits and vegetables, not using dirty dishes, and regularly cleaning children's toys.