Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease: Practical Guidance

It spreads through close contact and exposure to respiratory secretions, stool or fluid from blisters. Fever, sore throat and reduced appetite may occur before painful mouth sores and skin changes. The rash may involve the palms, soles, fingers, toes, buttocks, arms or legs. A person can look only mildly unwell while still spreading the infection. The name does not refer to an infection caused by animals, and the condition is different from foot-and-mouth disease in livestock.

Wash hands with soap and water after toileting, changing nappies, wiping noses or touching blisters. Clean shared surfaces and avoid sharing drinks, food, towels or utensils. Encourage rest, regular fluids and soft foods; cool drinks may soothe mouth discomfort. Keep blisters clean and avoid breaking them. Follow childcare or school instructions about returning after illness, and ask a clinician which symptom medicines are suitable for the child.

Seek urgent care if there is difficulty breathing, inability to drink, very little urine, unusual sleepiness, repeated vomiting, severe headache or a stiff neck. Arrange an assessment if fever persists or worries you, the rash becomes increasingly red or develops discharge, or symptoms are not improving. A [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/) can help distinguish this illness from other causes of mouth sores and rash.

Ask how long close contacts should take extra hygiene precautions, when normal activities can resume, and how to protect hydration when swallowing hurts. For information about fever, see [Fever](/symptoms/fever/).