DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – A virus has been spreading among children in central Iowa.   Authorities say it’s called hand, foot and mouth disease, which causes sores on a person’s hands, feet and mouth. Mercy Central Pediatric Clinic in Des Moines reports that it’s treated dozens of small children with the disease.
 
Dr. Nader Aljuni says is more prevalent in toddlers who are exposed at day care centers or when interacting with other kids.  Experts say the best defense against the disease is frequent hand-washing and disinfecting shared toys.  Aljuni says the unusually warm spring has brought a new batch of viruses that aren’t expected until summer months.