Hand, foot and mouth disease rash description

The rash may appear on the palms, fingers, soles or sides of the feet. Spots can also occur around the buttocks, legs or arms. Mouth sores may begin as red areas and become shallow ulcers, making eating or drinking uncomfortable. Some children have a rash without many spots, while others mainly notice mouth pain or fever. The rash is linked to a viral infection and does not have the same appearance in every child.

Offer frequent sips of cool fluids and soft foods if chewing hurts. Keep blisters clean and avoid scratching or popping them. Wash hands after helping with toileting, wiping the nose or touching a rash, and do not share cups, cutlery or towels. A clinician or pharmacist can advise on age-appropriate pain or fever relief; do not give a child medicine intended for someone else.

Arrange a Child Health Consultation if mouth pain prevents drinking, urination becomes much less frequent, the child is unusually sleepy, breathing is difficult, or the skin looks infected with spreading redness or pus. Seek prompt advice for a young infant, a child with a weakened immune system, or a rash that is rapidly worsening. Fever that concerns you can be discussed alongside the rash.

Ask whether the pattern fits hand, foot and mouth disease, how to manage mouth pain, when the child can return to nursery or school, and which changes should prompt a review.