How Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Spreads

The virus can pass when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks closely, shares utensils, or touches another person after wiping their nose or mouth. Contact with poo during nappy changes or toileting is another route. Fluid from broken blisters and objects such as toys, door handles, and cups can also carry infection.

People are often most infectious while symptoms are present, but virus may remain in stool after the child seems better. That makes careful hand hygiene especially important after toileting and nappy changes.

Wash hands with soap and water after toilet use, nappy changes, nose wiping, and touching blisters. Clean shared toys and high-touch surfaces, wash soiled clothing and bedding, and avoid sharing cups, cutlery, towels, or toothbrushes. Cover coughs and sneezes and keep blisters clean and covered when practical.

Ask the nursery or school about its return policy. A child who is unwell should rest at home and avoid close contact with babies or people who may be vulnerable to infection.

Transmission questions do not replace an assessment when a child is dehydrated, unusually drowsy, breathing poorly, repeatedly vomiting, or developing a seizure. Contact a clinician if the rash diagnosis is uncertain, the child is deteriorating, or you need individual advice about attendance and household contacts.

Ask how long the child should stay away from group settings, which surfaces need extra cleaning, how to protect siblings, and whether the symptoms need confirmation.