Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Blisters: What to Know

The illness is caused by a contagious virus. Mouth sores may make eating or drinking uncomfortable, while skin spots can begin as red marks and develop into small blisters. They may dry and settle without being popped. The rash can also appear around the buttocks, legs, or arms. Blisters are not the same as the lesions of chickenpox, so a clinician may consider the whole pattern and the child’s other symptoms.

Offer frequent drinks and soft, cool foods if mouth sores hurt. Avoid acidic or spicy foods that sting. Keep the skin clean, avoid scratching, and do not pierce blisters; covering a rubbed area with a loose dressing can reduce irritation. Wash hands after caring for the child and avoid sharing cups, towels, or cutlery. A child should stay home while feeling unwell and follow local school or nursery advice.

Arrange medical advice if the child is drinking very little, passing much less urine, becoming unusually sleepy, or has a fever that concerns you; see our guide to [Fever](/symptoms/fever/). Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, severe weakness, confusion, or signs of dehydration. Contact a clinician if a blister becomes increasingly red, swollen, hot, or drains pus, as this may indicate a skin infection.

Ask whether the rash pattern fits hand, foot and mouth disease, how to manage painful mouth sores, and when the child can return to nursery or school. A [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/) can help if symptoms are difficult to assess at home.