Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common, highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects infants and children under age 5. It is characterized by sores in the mouth and a distinctive rash on the hands and feet.
Overview
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common, highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects infants and children under age 5. It is characterized by sores in the mouth and a distinctive rash on the hands and feet.
Symptoms
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Causes
- •Coxsackievirus A16
- •Enterovirus A71
- •Direct contact with saliva or mucus
- •Contact with contaminated surfaces
Risk factors
- •Age (mostly children under 5)
- •Frequent contact with childcare centers
- •Poor handwashing habits
- •Summer and autumn seasons
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 rash and sores
- •Review of symptoms and age
- •Throat swab (rarely)
- •Stool sample (rarely)
Treatment options
General educational information only — no dosage advice. Always follow guidance from a qualified clinician.
- •Over-the-counter pain relievers
- •Antipyretics for fever control
- •Topical numbing gels for mouth sores
- •Drink plenty of cold fluids
- •Eat soft foods (yogurt, smoothies)
- •Avoid spicy or acidic foods
- •Use saline mouth rinses
- •Rest and fever management
- •Hydration monitoring
Complications
- •Reduced quality of life
- •Worsening symptoms over time
- •Recurrence of hand, foot, and mouth disease (hfmd)
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 (hfmd)
- Signs of dehydration (no wet diapers)
- High fever that won't come down
- Seizures or stiff neck
- Confusion or extreme sleepiness
- Inability to swallow fluids
In any emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.
Real-world questions
- ›Can Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cause headaches?
- ›Is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) reversible?
- ›How quickly does Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) progress?
- ›Is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) hereditary?
- ›Can Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) be prevented?
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Frequently asked questions
Possible causes of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) include Coxsackievirus A16, Enterovirus A71, Direct contact with saliva or mucus, Contact with contaminated surfaces.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) 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