Aggressive Strain Of Hand, Foot And Mouth Disease Surfacing In Bay Area

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS) - Doctors in San Francisco are asking parents to look out for an aggressive virus among children.

The city has seen several cases of a new strand of hand, foot and mouth disease.

Medical experts say the virus is common among young children who frequent playgrounds and daycare.

It can lead to a rash, loss of appetite, fever and even cause fingernails and toenails to fall off.

The virus is also very contagious.

"I would guess one child in 5 to one in 10 who has had this disease has had a parent get it," said pediatrician Dr. Dan Kelly.

The new strain does not seem to be more dangerous than the traditional disease, but experts are intrigued by the changing symptoms.