What should you know about coxsackie rash on body?

Coxsackieviruses can cause hand, foot and mouth disease. Small red spots, bumps or blisters may appear on the hands, feet, around the mouth or elsewhere on the body, and painful mouth sores can make eating and drinking difficult. Fever, sore throat, reduced appetite or tiredness may accompany the rash.

A body rash is not specific to coxsackievirus. Atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, heat rash, intertrigo, psoriasis, ringworm, scabies and a drug rash can look different or overlap. A clinician uses the distribution, mouth findings, illness history and examination to assess the cause.

Offer frequent fluids and soft, cool foods if mouth sores hurt. Keep the skin clean and dry, avoid picking blisters, and use loose clothing. Wash hands carefully after toileting or changing nappies, clean shared surfaces and avoid sharing cups, towels or utensils while someone is unwell.

Ask a clinician or pharmacist which fever or pain medicine is suitable for the person's age and health. Do not give medicines intended for another person. Children should stay away from childcare or school while feverish or too unwell to participate, following local guidance.

Seek urgent care if a child cannot drink, is passing very little urine, is unusually sleepy, has trouble breathing, develops a stiff neck, has a seizure or appears seriously unwell. Arrange medical review for a rapidly spreading, painful or blistering rash, persistent fever, signs of skin infection or uncertainty about the diagnosis.

Ask whether the rash distribution and mouth symptoms fit coxsackievirus, how to manage fluids and pain, when normal activities can resume, and which changes should prompt reassessment.