Can hand, foot and mouth disease spread to adults?

Adults may catch the virus while caring for an infected child, especially during feeding, kissing, wiping the nose or changing nappies. Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth, nose or eyes can also pass it on. An infected adult may have fever, sore throat, mouth ulcers or a rash, although symptoms can be mild or absent. A person can spread the virus before the illness is obvious and while virus remains in stool after recovery.

Wash hands with soap and water after toileting, nappy changes and nose wiping, and before preparing food. Clean frequently touched surfaces, do not share drinks or utensils, and wash soiled laundry separately from clean items. Avoid close contact while someone has active symptoms. Keep the sick person hydrated and rested. If an adult becomes unwell, avoid preparing food for others when possible and ask a clinician about work or childcare precautions.

Seek medical advice when mouth pain prevents drinking, urine becomes much less frequent, fever is persistent or the diagnosis is uncertain. Urgent assessment is needed for breathing trouble, severe swallowing difficulty, confusion, a seizure, severe headache with a stiff neck, or inability to wake normally. For fever information see [Fever](/symptoms/fever/); families can also arrange a [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/).

Ask how long close-contact precautions are needed, whether a child can attend nursery, how to protect a pregnant household member, and which symptoms in an adult require examination.