Boy in bed and parent checking temperature
At Every Turn > Primary Care > Top 5 things parents should know about hand, foot and mouth disease
Aug 20, 2018

Top 5 things parents should know about hand, foot and mouth disease

Cheryl Cameron, MD, Pediatrician

Hand, foot and mouth disease, widely known as HMFD, is a mild but highly contagious viral infection that is common in young children, especially in ages 5 and under — but anyone can get it. HFMD is most likely to occur in summer and fall months. Symptoms usually go away without treatment within several days.

Signs and Symptoms

HMFD can cause the following symptoms:

  • Painful, red blisters inside the mouth, specifically on the tongue, gums and inside of cheeks

  • Fever

  • Sore throat

  • Loss of appetite

  • Headache

  • A red rash on hands and soles of the feet, diaper area or any other area of the body

How HFMD is spread

HFMD is easily spread through person-to-person contact. In addition, after a child with HFMD sneezes or coughs, other kids can catch the airborne virus. A child playing with toys or objects that have come in contact with an infected person can also get the virus.

You or your child could also contract HFMD through feces or fluid from blisters. For this reason, it’s common for kids at daycare to get this illness because of the frequent diaper changes and potty training going on.

Treatment

In most cases, symptoms will go away within seven to 10 days. There is no medication or antibiotic that will cure HFMD. However you can try these home remedies to help with your child’s discomfort:

  • Ibuprofen or acetaminophen to relieve discomfort.

  • Topical ointments, such as zinc oxide or petroleum jelly, to protect and heal blisters.

  • Cold drinks, ice or frozen fruit popsicles to soothe mouth and throat. Do not give your child hot drinks or acidic foods as they will make the pain worse.

  • Plenty of fluids to keep your child from getting dehydrated.

Prevention

You can do a number of things to prevent the spread of HFMD, including:

  • Regular hand washing. Wash your hands frequently, especially after changing a diaper or using the bathroom.

  • Cleaning. Use soap and water to disinfect children’s toys, baby pacifiers, food areas, etc. Wash your child’s clothing and bedding.

  • Teaching good hygiene. Discourage kids from putting their fingers in their mouths and encourage handwashing.

  • Keeping your child home from daycare or school. Usually children are no longer contagious when their fever is gone and their blisters or open wounds are completely healed.

When to see a doctor

In most cases, HFMD is a minor illness that will take a few days to a week to get better. If your child’s signs and symptoms worsen or their sore throat prevents them from swallowing fluids or they have less urine than usual in a day, contact your pediatrician. Also call your doctor if your child’s fever lasts more than three days or areas around the sores look infected.

Children’s Wisconsin has more than 20 primary care offices conveniently located throughout the Milwaukee area and southeast Wisconsin. Find a pediatrician near you. View more articles from Cheryl Cameron, MD

Related stories

Winning the fight against asthma Children's Wisconsin
Videos Mar 27, 2025

Winning the Fight Against Asthma

Addressing the root causes of asthma so kids can be kids.

Children's Wisconsin Eating Disorder Program Adolescent Health and Medicine
Tips Mar 26, 2025

What Parents Need To Know About the Rise in Eating Disorders

Margaret Thew, DNP, FNP-BC Family Nurse Practitioner

Eating disorders can affect many parts of a child’s life, including how they feel physically and emotionally, as well as their friendships.

How to treat seasonal allergies in kids Children's Wisconsin
Tips Mar 21, 2025

Kids and Seasonal Allergies: Navigating Symptoms and Solutions

Andrew MacGinnitie, MD Allergy Immunology Specialist

Knowing what’s causing your child’s seasonal allergies can be helpful in minimizing exposure to common triggers.

Is your kid ready for overnight summer camp Children's Wisconsin
Tips Mar 18, 2025

Happy Campers: How To Tell if Your Child Is Ready for Overnight Camp

Maggie Moegenburg, LCSW Behavioral Health Consultant

If you’re thinking about sending your child to an overnight camp, it’s essential to assess whether they’re ready.

The power of fostering siblings Children's Wisconsin
Patient Stories Mar 14, 2025

Fostering Siblings Builds Unbreakable Bonds

Cassie Schmidt Foster Parent

When children enter foster care, they often feel scared. But when they enter with a sibling, they bring a piece of home with them.

New Clinic Partnerships in Northeast Wisconsin Fosters Ease and Access for Patient Families Children's Wisconsin
Patient Stories Mar 11, 2025

Providing Specialty Care Closer to Home for Kids in Northeast Wisconsin

For many families in Northeast Wisconsin, the Connected for Kids partnership has been more than just convenient — it’s been life-changing.

Measles outbreak United States 2025 Children's Wisconsin
Tips Mar 10, 2025

Measles outbreak shows importance of getting your kids vaccinated

Frank Zhu, MD Medical Director

The recent measles outbreak is a regrettable reminder to all of us of just how preventable this disease truly is when your child is vaccinated.