If your child has been feeling unwell for the past few days, and you notice sores in their mouth and tiny blisters or red spots on their hands, feet, and diaper area, they might have hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD).
HFMD is a viral infection that primarily affects children under 5 years old, though teens and adults can also contract it. The incidence of HFMD often increases during the monsoon season when the virus becomes more active. While there is no specific treatment for HFMD, it usually resolves on its own within 7 to 10 days. Maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding contact with infected individuals can help prevent the spread of HFMD.
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Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a highly contagious illness caused by the Coxsackievirus-A16 and Enterovirus-71. The virus spreads through direct contact with unwashed hands or contaminated surfaces. HFMD is characterized by a rash that can appear anywhere on the body, including the hands, feet, chest, back, genitals, and buttocks, and may also cause painful sores in the mouth.
Infants and children under 5 are most susceptible to HFMD. This is the time when children venture out of their homes and into classrooms and nurseries. The virus therefore spreads quickly among children in schools, daycare centres, or during play since their immune systems have not developed enough. Older children, teens, and adults can also get infected, which means these are people with a weak immune system. though they typically build immunity after exposure to the virus. People with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of infection. HFMD can recur, making prevention essential.
Initial Symptoms |
Advanced Symptoms |
| Mild fever | Painful sores in the front of the mouth or throat, including the tongue |
| Loss of appetite | |
| Stomach ache | Itchy, blister-like rash on the palms, soles, elbows, genitals, and buttocks |
| Runny nose | |
| Fussiness | Swollen lymph nodes in the neck |
| Sore throat |
HFMD is caused by viruses from the Coxsackievirus and Enterovirus families. The virus can spread through:
In childcare settings, frequent diaper changes and using the toilet can facilitate the spread of HFMD among babies. Adults can also spread HFMD without showing symptoms.
While HFMD symptoms are usually mild, complications can arise, including:
In rare cases, the enterovirus can cause serious complications such as viral meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord membranes) or encephalitis (brain inflammation).
Healthcare providers diagnose HFMD by examining blisters and symptoms. They may also prescribe some probationary tests such as:
There is no specific medication or vaccine for HFMD. Antibiotics are ineffective as HFMD is a viral disease. Treatment focuses on home care, including:
Note: Consult a healthcare provider before giving any medication.
HFMD is highly contagious, so practising good hygiene is essential to slow or stop its spread. Preventive measures include:
HFMD typically resolves in 7-10 days. During this time, keeping your child hydrated and maintaining cleanliness is crucial. Ensure they wash their hands regularly and avoid spreading the virus to others.
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common and contagious illness that mostly affects infants, children, and teens but can also infect adults. Initial symptoms last 2-3 days, followed by a recovery period of 7-10 days. The disease is most contagious in the first week, but the spread diminishes during recovery. If symptoms persist beyond 10 days or blisters become severely itchy, consult a healthcare provider. Children who are just starting school are at the highest risk of getting the disease. Hence it is advisable to reach out to a paediatrician at the slightest incidence of discomfort.
HFMD is primarily caused by the Coxsackievirus, which belongs to the enterovirus family. This virus can be found in various bodily secretions, including saliva, nasal mucus, and stool. It is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces. Maintaining good hygiene and cleanliness is crucial to prevent the spread of this virus.
Yes, adults can contract HFMD, although it is less common and often presents with milder symptoms or none at all. Adults can still spread the virus to others, even if they don’t show symptoms. This is why it is important for adults to maintain good hygiene practices, especially around children.
HFMD progresses through two main stages with symptoms that can cause significant discomfort, particularly in children:
The initial stage includes cold-like symptoms such as a mild fever, sore throat, and general discomfort. Within a few days, the disease progresses to the major stage, where painful sores develop in the mouth, and a rash or blisters appear on the hands, feet, and other parts of the body.
It is best to avoid close physical contact, such as hugging and kissing, with your child during the initial days of HFMD infection. This period is when the virus is most contagious, and physical contact can easily spread it to others.
Instead, focus on comforting your child through other means, such as verbal reassurance and gentle care. Once the blisters start to dry up and heal, the risk of contagion decreases significantly.
With no vaccine, prevention relies heavily on maintaining good hygiene practices, such as:
Researchers are continuously studying the virus to develop potential vaccines in the future. Until then, vigilance and preventive measures are the best defence against HFMD.
Recovery from HFMD typically takes about 7 to 10 days. During this period, the body’s immune system works to fight off the virus, leading to the resolution of symptoms.
Most individuals recover fully without any long-term effects. However, maintaining hydration and comfort is essential during recovery, especially for children who may have difficulty eating and drinking due to mouth sores.
Both diseases are highly contagious but caused by different viruses.
HFMD causes blisters and sores on the hands, feet, and mouth.
Chickenpox usually starts with red spots on the torso and spreads to the head, arms, and legs. They are also more widespread and can cover the entire body.
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