HFMD fever: what to know and do

HFMD fever is usually part of an infection that may also cause mouth sores and a rash on the hands and feet. The illness is often seen in children, although adults can develop it too. Fever may come before the mouth or skin changes, so the overall pattern matters more than one symptom alone.

Hand, foot and mouth disease is caused by an enterovirus. A child may seem tired, eat less, or complain that swallowing hurts. Small painful ulcers can occur inside the mouth, while spots or small blisters may appear on the palms, soles, fingers, or around the nappy area. A fever is one presentation of hand, foot and mouth disease; it does not by itself identify the cause. Other infections, including chickenpox or a common cold, can also involve fever.

Offer frequent sips of water or an oral rehydration drink, especially when mouth sores make drinking uncomfortable. Cool, soft foods may be easier than spicy, salty, or acidic foods. Let the child rest and use a child-appropriate fever medicine only according to the product instructions or a clinician’s advice. Do not give aspirin to children. Wash hands with soap and water after toileting or changing nappies, avoid sharing cups and utensils, and clean frequently touched surfaces. Keep the child away from nursery or school while they are unwell and follow the setting’s return guidance.

Arrange prompt medical advice if the child is drinking very little, has noticeably fewer wet nappies or trips to the toilet, is unusually sleepy, or cannot swallow saliva. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, a seizure, a stiff neck, confusion, or a child who is difficult to wake. Contact a clinician if fever persists, returns after improving, or the rash becomes hot, increasingly painful, swollen, or draining. Infants, children with long-term conditions, and anyone with a weakened immune system may need individual advice sooner.

Ask whether the mouth sores and rash fit hand, foot and mouth disease, how to maintain fluids when swallowing hurts, and which fever medicine and dose are suitable for the child’s age and health. Mention the fever’s timing, drinking and urine pattern, any exposure to an ill child, and whether new skin changes are spreading.