Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease: What to Expect

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness that mostly affects young children but can also occur in adults. It usually causes mild symptoms and goes away on its own, but it can be uncomfortable and worrying for parents. Knowing what to look out for, how it spreads, and what to do can make managing this condition much easier.

What Are the First Signs of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease?

HFMD usually starts with flu-like symptoms before the rash appears. Common early signs include:

• Fever

• Sore throat

• Feeling unwell, tired, or irritable

• Loss of appetite

Within a few days, a rash develops:

• Small red spots or blisters on the hands, feet, and around the mouth

• Sometimes spots may also appear on the legs, buttocks, or genitals

• Painful mouth ulcers which can make eating and drinking uncomfortable

  
  

How is Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually straightforward and can be made by your GP based on symptoms and a physical examination. Tests are rarely needed. If your child is unwell and showing the signs above, a quick check-up with a doctor can confirm HFMD and rule out other conditions.

What Treatments Are Available?

There is no specific cure for HFMD, as it is caused by a virus. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms until the illness passes, usually within 7–10 days. Helpful measures include:

• Pain relief – Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and discomfort (always follow dosage instructions).

• Hydration – Encourage plenty of fluids, as dehydration is a risk if mouth ulcers are painful.

• Soft foods – Cold or soft foods like yoghurt or jelly can make eating easier.

• Rest – Allow your child time to recover.

Most cases are mild, but if your child is unable to drink, has a very high fever, is unusually sleepy, or their symptoms are worsening, seek medical advice immediately.

Who is More Likely to Get Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease?

• Children under 5 years are most commonly affected.

• It can also spread in childcare centres, kindergartens, and schools due to close contact.

• Adults can get HFMD, but symptoms are usually milder.

The virus spreads easily through:

• Coughing and sneezing

• Contact with saliva, fluid from blisters, or stools

• Touching contaminated objects like toys or doorknobs

  
  

Debunking Myths About Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

Myth: Only children get HFMD. Truth: While it’s more common in children, adults can also catch it.

Myth: HFMD is the same as foot and mouth disease in animals. Truth: They are completely different illnesses. HFMD in humans is not related to the animal disease and cannot be caught from pets or livestock.

Myth: Once you’ve had HFMD, you can’t get it again. Truth: Because different viruses can cause HFMD, it is possible to catch it more than once.

Myth: Antibiotics will treat HFMD. Truth: Antibiotics do not work against viruses. Treatment focuses on easing symptoms until recovery.

What Should You Do?

If your child has symptoms of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease:

• Keep them at home from childcare or school until blisters have dried and they are feeling better (usually about 7 days).

• Encourage good hygiene – frequent hand washing and disinfecting surfaces can help prevent spreading the virus.

• Contact your GP if symptoms are severe, your child is very unwell, or you are unsure if it is HFMD.

At Alma Street Medical Clinic, our doctors can provide advice and treatment options to help keep your family comfortable and safe during an HFMD infection.

Call us or book online today for an appointment.

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