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Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease
This common childhood viral illness causes mouth ulcers and a rash on the hands and feet. It is usually mild and clears on its own within a week or so.
Causes & risk factors
- Coxsackie and other enteroviruses
- Spread by coughs, sneezes, saliva and contact with blisters or stool
- Common in creches and among young children
- Not related to the foot-and-mouth disease of animals
Common symptoms
- Painful mouth ulcers
- Blisters/rash on hands and feet
- Mild fever
- Sore throat
- Reduced appetite and drooling in babies
- Tiredness
Tests & diagnosis
- Usually diagnosed by the typical rash and ulcers
Treatment & management
- Comfort measures — it clears on its own
- Encourage fluids; cool, soft foods are easier with mouth ulcers
- Pain and fever relief at weight-based doses confirmed with a doctor
- Good handwashing to reduce spread
- Keep the child home while unwell
When to see a doctor urgently
- Not drinking and showing signs of dehydration — get seen
- A very high fever or a child who is very drowsy — urgent
- Symptoms lasting more than 10 days or getting worse
- A newborn or a child with low immunity affected — urgent
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about hand, foot & mouth disease. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
How long is it contagious?
The child is most contagious in the first week of illness, but the virus can be passed in the stool for weeks. Good handwashing is the best way to limit spread.
Is it dangerous?
It is usually mild and self-limiting. The main concern is a child not drinking because of painful mouth ulcers, which can lead to dehydration.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.