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What is Hand Foot Mouth Disease?
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Palash Anilkumar Sangai, Pediatrician
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness that mostly affects young children. It is caused by the coxsackievirus, and it spreads easily through saliva, stool, mucus, or fluid from blisters.
The illness causes painful red blisters or rashes on the hands, feet, mouth, and diaper area. Children may also have a fever, sore throat, and trouble swallowing, which can lead to dehydration.
It is most common in kids under 7, especially in places like daycares and schools.
HFMD usually goes away on its own in 7 to 10 days.
While there is no specific medicine or vaccine, doctors recommend rest, fluids, and gentle care at home to help the child recover comfortably.
Tomato Flu vs. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)
Tomato flu and HFMD are viral infections seen mostly in young children. Both cause fever and red blisters, but tomato flu blisters are larger and can spread across the body. HFMD usually causes smaller blisters on the hands, feet, and mouth.
Both are contagious and spread through contact with body fluids. There is no specific treatment; rest, fluids, and fever relief help in recovery. Most children get better within 7-10 days.
What are the Symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)?
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) symptoms often appear 3 to 7 days after exposure. It starts with general signs of illness and progresses to more visible symptoms affecting the skin and mouth.
While most common in children under 5, adults can also be affected, though often with milder symptoms.
Common early signs hand, foot and mouth day by day
- Fever may be mild or absent
- Sore throat and throat pain
- Fatigue, body aches, or general discomfort
- Loss of appetite and trouble eating
- Painful mouth sores (called herpangina) often found on the tongue, inside of cheeks, gums, and roof of the mouth
- Red rash or blisters on the hands, soles of the feet, and sometimes on the buttocks or diaper area; blisters may not itch but can be painful
- Small blister-like lesions also possible on the sides of the tongue, fingers, and around the mouth
- Irritability or fussiness especially in toddlers and infants
- Mild dehydration due to mouth pain while swallowing
Rare but Severe Symptoms
- In rare cases, the virus may affect the brain or spinal cord, leading to seizures, confusion, weakness, or unsteadiness. Immediate medical attention is needed if such signs appear.
Symptoms usually resolve on their own within 7 to 10 days, and full recovery is expected in most cases. Early care can ease discomfort and reduce the risk of complications.
If your child faces severe symptoms, you may consult our Pediatrician for proper evaluation and care.
What are the Causes of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)?
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is caused by a group of viruses called enteroviruses, most commonly the Coxsackievirus A16. Sometimes, enterovirus 71 can also be responsible, which may lead to more severe symptoms.
The virus spreads easily from person to person through:
- Saliva, mucus from the nose, or fluids from blisters
- Feces (poop), especially during diaper changes
- Coughing or sneezing
- Touching contaminated objects like toys, doorknobs, or surfaces
HFMD is highly contagious, especially in daycares, preschools, and crowded spaces, and children under 5 are most at risk. Good hygiene and handwashing help reduce the spread.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) Risk Factors
Several risk factors can increase the chances of getting hand, foot, and mouth disease, especially in young children.
Key Risk Factors
- Age: Hand Foot Mouth disease in children under 5 years old are most commonly affected.
- Group settings: Kids in daycares, preschools, or schools are more likely to catch and spread the virus.
- Weaker immune systems: Infants or those recovering from illness may have a higher risk.
- Poor hygiene habits: Not washing hands after using the toilet or before eating raises the risk.
- Seasonal outbreaks: HFMD is more common in summer and early fall in many regions.
Close contact and poor hand hygiene make this illness spread quickly in early childhood settings.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionHow Is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosing HFMD is usually simple and based on your child’s symptoms and physical signs. Most doctors can identify it during a routine exam without needing special tests.
- Visual Exam: The doctor checks for the classic rash on the hands, feet, mouth, or buttocks and looks for mouth sores and fever.
- Medical History: They ask about recent symptoms, possible exposure at school or daycare, and any other sick contacts.
- Throat or Stool Sample (rarely needed): If the symptoms are unclear or severe, the doctor may take a throat swab or stool sample to confirm the virus type.
In most cases, testing isn’t required, and diagnosis is made quickly to guide care and prevent spreading the virus.
What are the Treatment Options for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)?
There is no specific cure for hand, foot, and mouth disease. It usually goes away on its own within 7 to 10 days. Treatment focuses on easing discomfort and managing symptoms.
Common Treatment Approaches
- Rest: Let your child rest and recover fully at home.
- Hydration: Encourage drinking fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if mouth sores make eating painful.
- Pain relief: Use over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and relieve sore throat or body aches. Avoid aspirin in children.
- Mouth care: Cold fluids, ice creams, or popsicles may soothe mouth pain. Avoid citrus juices or spicy foods that can irritate sores.
The hand, foot, and mouth diseases have no known treatment or vaccination, and antibiotics treat bacterial infections, not viruses.
Meanwhile, parents may do the following to make the child feel better:
- Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or numbing mouth sprays are examples of over-the-counter painkillers and avoid taking aspirin unless prescribed by the doctor.
- To relieve a sore throat, avoid cold foods like smoothies, yogurt, and ice pops. Also, avoid canned juice and soda, as they contain acids that can irritate sores.
- Anti-itch lotion, like calamine, for rashes.
Important Note
Antibiotics are not used because a virus causes HFMD. Most children recover without complications, but always consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or your child becomes very weak or dehydrated.
For proper care and guidance during HFMD, you may visit our medicover hospitals for timely evaluation and treatment.
Home Remedies for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) Itching
Itchy rashes from HFMD can be uncomfortable, especially for young children. While the condition usually heals on its own, these gentle home remedies can help soothe the itching and improve comfort:
Effective Home Remedies
- Cool Baths: A lukewarm or cool bath with baking soda (1/4 cup), oatmeal powder, or Epsom salts can ease itching and calm the skin.
- Calamine Lotion: Apply gently to rashes (avoid open sores) to reduce itchiness and irritation.
- Cold Compress: Use a clean, cool damp cloth on itchy areas for instant relief.
- Loose Clothing: Dress your child in soft, breathable cotton clothes to avoid irritating the rash.
- Keep Skin Dry: Gently pat (not rub) the skin dry after baths and avoid using scented lotions or soaps.
- Distraction and Comfort: Keep your child distracted with quiet games, books, or soothing music to ease scratching urges.
Important: Avoid scratching, which can lead to infection. If itching worsens or rash looks infected (red, swollen, or oozing), consult a doctor.
When to See a Doctor for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)?
Most cases of HFMD are mild and go away on their own, but there are times when medical help is important.
See a doctor if your child
- Has a fever lasting more than 3 days
- Refuses to drink fluids, shows signs of dehydration (dry lips, no tears, fewer wet diapers)
- Has severe mouth sores causing too much pain to eat or drink
- Seems very drowsy, irritable, or weak
- Has a rash that spreads quickly, becomes very painful, or looks infected
- Is younger than 6 months with symptoms
- Has a weakened immune system or other health concerns
Timely care can help prevent complications and ease your child’s recovery.
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How Can I Prevent Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
You can lower your child's risk of hand-foot-and-mouth disease in many ways:
- Wash hands and use hand sanitizers if hand washing is not possible.
- Teach good oral and general hygiene.
- Disinfect common areas like door knobs, toys, tables, etc.
- Clean napkins or towels with soap or water
- Avoid close contact
- Wear Masks in public places and while in contact with sick patients.
Complications of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
HFMD is usually mild, but in rare cases, it can lead to complications, especially if the child is very young or has a weakened immune system.
- Dehydration
- Nail Shedding (Onychomadesis)
- Skin Infection
- Viral Meningitis
- Encephalitis
Most children recover without complications. But early treatment and proper care help prevent serious outcomes.
Dos and Don’ts
Currently, no medication or vaccination is available to prevent the disease. Practicing good hygiene has always been a valuable and uncostly prevention method. Below are some things you can do to ensure your family and friends are safe from HFMD.
Do’s |
Don’ts |
|
Use bleach or sanitizers to disinfect toys. |
Touch your eyes, nose, and mouth with unclean hands. |
|
Wash your hands, especially after changing diapers. |
Skip taking fluids |
|
Call the doctor if symptoms worsen and don’t improve within 2 weeks. |
Avoid taking precautions and medications prescribed by the doctor |
|
Take complete rest until the fever is gone. |
Share drinking cups or eating utensils. |
|
Clean contaminated surfaces |
Use medicines without consulting the doctor |
Treatment includes medications, being hydrated and taking rest. However, if the problem persists consult a doctor for immediate therapy.
Our Experience Treating Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
At Medicover Hospitals, our pediatric specialists manage HFMD with compassion, accuracy, and child-focused care. We’ve helped hundreds of children recover comfortably with early diagnosis, supportive treatments, and personalized guidance for parents.
Our team ensures timely care to prevent complications and provides clear instructions for home management. With a strong infection control approach and a calm, child-friendly environment, we aim to reduce discomfort, speed recovery, and support families every step of the way.
