What should you know about hand, foot and mouth disease age?

This viral infection spreads easily among young children because they share toys, touch common surfaces and may have close contact in nurseries or schools. A child may develop a fever, sore throat, painful mouth ulcers and small spots or blisters on the hands and feet. The rash can also appear around the bottom, legs or arms. Babies may not be able to describe mouth pain, so refusing feeds, drooling or becoming unusually unsettled can be useful clues.

Older children and adults can become infected too. Their symptoms may be mild, but they can still pass the virus to other people. Age alone does not confirm the diagnosis; the pattern of illness and an examination are more helpful.

Offer frequent sips of water or an oral rehydration drink, using a cup, spoon or syringe if mouth sores make drinking difficult. Cool, soft foods may be easier to manage than spicy, salty or acidic foods. Let the child rest and keep fingernails short so scratching does not damage blisters.

Wash hands with soap and water after nappy changes, nose wiping or toilet use. Clean frequently touched toys and surfaces, and avoid sharing cups, cutlery or towels. Use only age-appropriate medicines and doses recommended by a clinician or pharmacist; never give aspirin to a child.

Seek prompt medical advice if a young child is drinking very little, has fewer wet nappies or trips to the toilet, has a dry mouth, cries without tears or seems unusually sleepy. These can signal dehydration. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, a seizure, a child who is hard to wake, or a rapidly worsening illness.

Contact a clinician if the fever persists, symptoms are severe, the child is very young, or you are unsure whether the rash fits hand, foot and mouth disease. Keep the child away from group settings while they are unwell and follow local school or nursery guidance.

You could ask: Does the rash and mouth soreness fit hand, foot and mouth disease? How can I help my child drink? Which medicine and dose are suitable for this age? When can my child return to nursery or school? What signs would mean the child needs urgent assessment?