What should you know about foot hoof and mouth disease?

The illness is most common in young children, although older children and adults can also develop it. Most people recover as the immune system clears the infection. Small spots or blisters may appear on the palms, soles, fingers, toes or around the mouth, while sores inside the mouth can make eating and drinking uncomfortable. A child may also be tired, irritable or less interested in food. The rash is not the same as the foot-and-mouth disease that affects farm animals.

Offer frequent sips of cool fluid and soft foods if mouth sores hurt. Rest, clean hands and avoid sharing cups, utensils, towels or toothbrushes. Keep blisters clean and avoid picking them. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on age-appropriate pain or fever relief; do not give a child medicine that is unsuitable for their age. Keep the child away from nursery or school while they are unwell and follow the setting’s return guidance.

Arrange medical advice if a child is drinking very little, passing much less urine, becoming unusually sleepy, or has a dry mouth or no tears. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, marked weakness, a seizure, a stiff neck, or a child who is difficult to wake. Contact a clinician if the fever is persistent, symptoms are worsening, or the skin becomes increasingly red, swollen or painful. A clinician can assess whether another illness needs treatment.

Ask which fluids and pain-relief options are suitable, how long the child should stay home, and whether reduced drinking needs an assessment. Mention the first day of fever, any mouth pain, urine changes and known contact with other children. A [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/) can help if symptoms are difficult to manage. Read about [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) if temperature symptoms are a concern.