When is child health consultation recommended for hand, foot and mouth disease?

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a viral illness that may cause fever, sore throat, painful mouth ulcers, and small spots or blisters on the hands, feet, or other areas. Mouth pain can reduce drinking even when a child is hungry. A clinician can examine the rash and mouth, consider other causes of ulcers or blisters, and check whether the child is becoming dehydrated.

Offer frequent sips of cool fluid and soft foods if tolerated. Avoid acidic drinks and foods that sting the mouth. Wash hands after toileting or nappy changes, avoid sharing cups and utensils, and clean frequently touched surfaces. Keep the child home from activities while feverish or too unwell to participate. Use only age-appropriate pain or fever medicine according to professional advice and the product instructions.

Seek urgent help if the child cannot drink, is passing very little urine, has a dry mouth or no tears, is difficult to wake, or has breathing difficulty. Get prompt medical advice for a persistent high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, unusual drowsiness, rapidly worsening symptoms, or a rash that does not fade when pressed.

Ask how to relieve mouth pain, which fluids and foods are suitable, how to recognise dehydration, and when the child can safely return to nursery or school.