What should you know about incubation period of HFMD?

The incubation period is the interval between infection and the first signs of illness. Early symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue and feeling generally unwell. Painful mouth sores can appear, followed by a rash or small blisters on the hands and feet. A child may be contagious before the rash is obvious, and virus can remain in stool after recovery, so hand hygiene remains useful.

A rash or fever does not identify one specific infection. A clinician considers age, examination, mouth changes, skin findings and contact with other children. Learn about [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) or [Feeling Generally Unwell](/symptoms/feeling-generally-unwell/) if you need symptom context.

Offer frequent fluids and soft, cool foods if mouth sores make eating uncomfortable. Keep the child home while feverish or too unwell for normal activities, and avoid sharing cups, utensils and towels. Wash hands after nappy changes or toilet use and clean frequently touched surfaces. Do not give medicines intended for another child; ask a pharmacist or clinician about suitable fever or pain relief.

Seek medical advice if a child drinks very little, urinates much less, has persistent fever, severe headache, unusual sleepiness or breathing difficulty. Urgent assessment is needed for confusion, a seizure, marked weakness or signs of dehydration. A cough, [Fatigue](/symptoms/fatigue/) or [Headache](/symptoms/headache/) may occur with many illnesses and should be judged with the full picture.

Ask how long the child should stay away from nursery or school, which symptoms suggest dehydration, and whether siblings or pregnant household members need tailored advice.