What is coxsackie virus?

Answer 1

The coxsackie virus is a virus that lives in the digestive tract. It is contagious and most outbreaks occur in the summer and fall months. This illness has flu like symptoms and will go away without any treatment.

Answer 2

Coxsackie disease is a virus, spread by fecal matter hand to mouth contamination. It remains infectious for about a week after symptoms clear, longer in people with compromised immune systems.

It was named for the town of Coxsackie, NY by the scientists at the New York State Dept. of Health who first identified it in 1949. There are two strains of this virus, A and B.

If you have severe symptoms, especially in children, medical help should be sought immediately as it can be damaging or even life threatening. Please see the related link (column to the left) for specific information on symptoms and treatment.