Abstract:Enterovirus 71 (EV71) belonging to human enterovirus, is the mainly causative agent of severe Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) and has been associated with various neurological complications, even death. There is currently no effective prevention and specific therapy for EV71, following high disability and mortality rates. Along with the profound study, a large number of compounds with anti-EV71 ability have been discovered, and the mechanisms and drug targets explored are different. Thus, from the perspective of drug to virus and host, this paper reviews and discusses the latest progress in the mechanism of active ingredients in natural drugs, synthetic drugs and common traditional Chinese medicine against EV71 infection. In addition, the screening technology of anti-EV71 drugs was briefly summarized, aiming to provide help for the screening, research and development of anti EV71 drugs.