Outbreak

The verdict is in. It isn't Strep. The doctor believes that it is Coxsakie virus in the form of Herpangina [an infection of the throat which causes red-ringed blisters and ulcers on the tonsils and soft palate, the fleshy back portion of the roof of the mouth.] It is the same family of virus that causes Hand/Foot/Mouth, but doesn't have the rash.

And apparently is running rampant through NE Ohio.

The good news is that she should no longer be contagious as of tomorrow [over 48 hours fever free] and will be free to go to the first day of school.

The bad news is that it can take a week for the throat ulcers to heal. And I am sorry, but there is no way that I will be able to get Chase to gargle with Maalox and Benedryl. So it looks like I will have to deal with the crying and flopping about how she is hungry. Everything she tries to eat hurts so much that she usually doesn't make it past one bite. Motrin and Tylenol only ease the pain a little bit.

We have tried everything from cold pop-sickles, smoothies, warm beverages, smooshy food... you name it, we have tried it. But if you have ever had a canker sore, think about relocating 20-30 of them in your throat. I wouldn't want to swallow, either.

It might be a long week. Praying that they heal very quickly.