A virus causes hand, foot and mouth disease. It leads to a rash made up of small, blister-like bumps. These bumps often appear on the hands and feet, as well as inside the mouth, such as on the tongue, cheeks or throat.

Some kids may also get blisters on their legs, arms or in the diaper area. A mild fever is also common.

Viruses cause hand, foot and mouth disease. The main viruses that cause hand, foot and mouth disease include the coxsackievirus and other enteroviruses.

Hand, foot and mouth disease is very common in kids under age 10. It happens most often in the summer and fall.

The virus spreads easily through contact with stool (poop), spit or fluid from blisters. This can happen by touching unwashed hands or shared surfaces.

Our skilled doctors treat everything from common illnesses to more complex health concerns. We know how to spot symptoms early and provide care tailored to your child’s age and needs.

• Seamless access to care: Whether you choose an in-person or virtual urgent care visit, it’s easy to get the care your child needs quickly. We offer flexible scheduling and multiple locations across Wisconsin.
• Expert care for all: Our team knows how to care for all kids in a safe and kind way. This includes those with delays, sensory issues or health conditions.

For mild symptoms, consider an urgent care video visit or find an urgent care near you. You can also call us at (877) 607-5280 to schedule a visit.

Before

Before your child’s visit:

• Note any symptoms your child is having, such as fever, sore throat, reduced hunger or rash.
• Ensure your child stays hydrated.

During

During your child’s visit, we will:

• Ask about their symptoms and overall health.
• Examine your child for blister-like bumps in the mouth, on the palms of the hands and on the soles of the feet. Bumps may also appear on the arms, legs and diaper area.
• Take their temperature to see if they have a fever.

After

Since a virus causes hand, foot and mouth disease, antibiotics won't help. Care focuses on relieving symptoms.

If your child has hand, foot and mouth disease, their doctor may recommend:

• Giving your child medicine to manage pain and reduce fever
• Drinking cool, iced fluids in small amounts often to prevent dehydration
• Watching for signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, not peeing often or fatigue
• Disinfecting toys and surfaces often
• Washing hands often with soap and water
• Avoiding close contact with others until the fever goes away, the mouth sores have healed and the blisters have dried