Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Overview

Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) is a common, contagious viral illness caused most often by coxsackievirus A16 or enterovirus 71. It primarily affects infants and young children but can occur in adults. The disease is characterized by fever, painful mouth sores, and a rash with blisters on the hands and feet.

Key Symptoms

• Fever, sore throat, and malaise as initial symptoms
• Painful red spots or blisters inside the mouth, on the tongue, and gums
• Red spots, blisters, or papules on the palms, soles, and fingers
• Rash may also appear on the buttocks, knees, and elbows
• Mouth sores may cause difficulty eating and drinking
• Symptoms typically resolve within 7-10 days

Affected Areas

Mouth (tongue, gums, inner cheeks), Palms, Soles, Fingers, Buttocks

Care Instructions

1. Manage fever and pain with acetaminophen or ibuprofen as appropriate for age.
2. Encourage fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if mouth sores make eating painful.
3. Offer soft, cool foods and avoid acidic or spicy items that irritate mouth sores.
4. Practice good hand hygiene and disinfect shared surfaces to reduce spread.
5. Keep affected children home from school or daycare until fever resolves and blisters dry.
6. See a doctor if the child cannot drink fluids, symptoms worsen, or fever persists beyond 3 days.

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.

Prevalence: Very common in children under 5; outbreaks occur frequently in childcare settings