Hand, foot and mouth disease
Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common, mild viral infection that primarily affects children, though adults can also catch it. It is characterized by sores in the mouth and a characteristic rash on the hands and feet.
Overview
Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common, mild viral infection that primarily affects children, though adults can also catch it. It is characterized by sores in the mouth and a characteristic rash on the hands and feet.
Symptoms
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Causes
- •Coxsackievirus A16
- •Enterovirus A71
- •Viral transmission through respiratory droplets
- •Contact with contaminated surfaces or fluid from blisters
Risk factors
- •Children under 5 years of age
- •Attending daycare or school environments
- •Close contact with infected individuals
- •Lack of frequent handwashing
How it progresses
3 stages- OnsetSymptoms appear, often triggered by a known cause.Often missed
- Active phaseSymptoms peak; self-care or short treatment usually helps.
- ResolutionSymptoms ease over days to weeks with proper care.
How it's diagnosed
- •Physical examination of the rash and mouth sores
- •Review of patient symptoms and age
- •Throat swab (rarely required)
- •Stool sample analysis (rarely required)
Treatment options
General educational information only — no dosage advice. Always follow guidance from a qualified clinician.
- •Fever reduction medications
- •Topical numbing gels for mouth sores
- •Time (the virus typically clears in 7 to 10 days)
- •Over-the-counter pain relief for fever and pain
- •Resting at home to prevent spreading the virus
- •Drinking cold fluids to stay hydrated
- •Avoiding spicy or acidic foods that irritate mouth sores
- •Hydration management
Complications
- •Reduced quality of life
- •Worsening symptoms over time
- •Recurrence of hand, foot and mouth disease
Prevention
- •Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- •See a clinician for routine check-ups
When to seek help
- •Symptoms persist beyond a few days
- •Symptoms interfere with daily activities
- •New or worsening symptoms appear
- •Concerning changes related to hand, foot and mouth disease
- Dehydration (dry mouth or lack of tears)
- High fever that does not come down
- Symptoms that worsen after several days
- Confusion or extreme drowsiness
- Difficulty swallowing or refusal to drink
In any emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.
Real-world questions
- ›Can Hand, foot and mouth disease cause headaches?
- ›Is Hand, foot and mouth disease reversible?
- ›How quickly does Hand, foot and mouth disease progress?
- ›Is Hand, foot and mouth disease hereditary?
- ›Can Hand, foot and mouth disease be prevented?
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Frequently asked questions
Possible causes of Hand, foot and mouth disease include Coxsackievirus A16, Enterovirus A71, Viral transmission through respiratory droplets, Contact with contaminated surfaces or fluid from blisters.
Hand, foot and mouth disease is generally mild, but severity can vary. Seek care if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Duration varies between individuals. Many cases improve with appropriate care, while others may persist longer and require ongoing management.
Some milder cases may improve with rest and self-care. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Consider seeing a clinician if symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or if you have any concerns related to general.
Sources
Information based on general medical references such as:
Last reviewed: May 2026