Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

What is hand, foot and mouth disease?

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a mild viral infection characterised by fever and blister like sores on the hands, feet and in the mouth.

It is most commonly caused by the Coxsackie A16 virus and  most often affects young children. The virus is spread from person to person via respiratory secretions, fluid from blisters or feces. Transmission may also via shared objects (fomites), such as towels, clothing etc. Again, the virus the skin via a small cut or abrasion. . The incubation period is 4-6 days. Hand, foot and mouth disease is most prevalent in the spring and summer months.

Hand, foot and mouth disease is not related to the more serious foot & mouth disease seen in animals.

Can an infected person go to work or school with hand foot and mouth disease?

Infected individuals should not attend work or school until the blisters have dried up and the patient is feeling well (ie; no fever, headache etc).

Symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease:

Typical symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease include;

• Fever.
• Flat, non itchy rash first appears, later turning into painful blisters. These can be found on the palms and fingers of the hand, the soles of the feet and in the mouth.
• Sore throat.
• Headache.
• Lethargy.
• Loss of appetite.

Treatment of hand, foot and mouth disease:

There is no cure for hand, foot and mouth disease, treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms & resting to allow the body to fight the virus. This may include;

• Over the counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. Note, children under 18 should not be given aspirin.
• Rest.
• Drink plenty of fluids.

Please note:

The medical articles on this site have not been written by a doctor & should not be considered a replacement for a doctor visit. The articles are provided for informative purposes only.

Always seek immediate medical advice for any problems.

While great care has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.