What should you know about causative agent of hand foot and mouth disease?

The virus can spread through saliva, fluid from blisters, stool, and respiratory droplets. Children may develop fever, a sore mouth, and small spots or blisters on the hands, feet, or other skin. The mouth lesions can make drinking uncomfortable. Several viruses can produce a similar illness, so the appearance of a rash does not identify the exact virus by itself. Most cases improve with supportive care, but a child should be watched for poor fluid intake.

Offer cool fluids often and soft foods if swallowing hurts. Keep the child home from settings where close contact is difficult while they are unwell, and wash hands carefully after nappy changes or toileting. Do not burst blisters. Use fever or pain medicine only as directed for the child's age and health. A Child Health Consultation can help when symptoms are difficult to manage or the diagnosis is uncertain.

Seek urgent medical advice if the child cannot drink, has much less urine, is unusually sleepy, has breathing difficulty, develops severe headache, or is difficult to wake. Arrange assessment when fever persists, symptoms worsen, or the child is very young or has a long-term medical condition.

Ask how to protect siblings, when the child can return to nursery or school, which pain relief is suitable, and what signs of dehydration to watch for. Mention reduced drinking, wet nappies, and any new neurological symptoms.