Hand, foot and mouth disease in teenagers

This is a contagious viral illness. A teenager may have a sore throat, reduced appetite, tiredness or a fever, followed by small painful ulcers in the mouth. Spots or blisters can appear on the hands and feet, and sometimes around the buttocks, legs or arms. The rash may be mild or absent, so the name does not describe every case. Teenagers can have more noticeable throat or mouth discomfort than younger children.

Offer frequent sips of cool water and soft foods if chewing hurts. Avoid sharing cups, cutlery, towels or toothbrushes, and wash hands after using the toilet and after touching blisters. Keep any open areas clean and avoid scratching them. Rest at home while feeling unwell and follow local school or activity guidance. A clinician or pharmacist can advise on age-appropriate pain or fever relief; do not give aspirin to anyone under eighteen.

Arrange medical advice if drinking is difficult, urination becomes much less frequent, fever persists, pain is severe, or the teenager is becoming unusually sleepy. Seek urgent help for confusion, trouble breathing, a stiff neck, a seizure, or signs of serious dehydration. A [fever](/symptoms/fever/) can be monitored with the other symptoms. A [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/) can help when the diagnosis or care plan is unclear.

Ask whether the mouth sores and rash fit hand, foot and mouth disease, how long to stay away from school or sport, which pain relief is suitable, and what signs would require reassessment.