Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a contagious viral illness that commonly affects infants and children in the U.S. and abroad. In temperate climates, HFMD occurs most often in summer and early autumn. While there is no vaccine to prevent the disease, there are simple steps you and your family can take to reduce the risk of getting sick.

What Are the Symptoms of HFMD?

Symptoms usually begin with a mild fever, poor appetite, malaise (feeling vaguely unwell), and often a sore throat. A couple of days after the fever starts, painful sores can develop in the mouth. They begin as small red spots that blister and then often become ulcers. Over the next 1 – 2 days, a skin rash can also develop with flat or raised red spots, usually on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, and sometimes on the buttocks. This rash may blister, but it will not itch.

Some people with HFMD may have only a rash, while some may have only mouth sores. Other people may show no symptoms at all.

Is HFMD Serious?

Usually not. HFMD is typically mild, and nearly all patients recover without medical treatment in 7–10 days. Complications are uncommon. Rarely, an infected person can develop viral meningitis (characterized by fever, headache, stiff neck, or back pain) and may need to be hospitalized for a few days. Other rare complications can include polio-like paralysis or encephalitis (brain inflammation), which can be fatal.

Is HFMD Contagious?

Yes, HFMD is moderately contagious. The disease is spread by direct contact with nose and throat discharges, saliva, fluid from blisters, or the stool of infected persons.

People with HFMD are most contagious during the first week of their illness, but they can continue "shedding" the virus that causes HFMD weeks after symptoms have gone away, and therefore can still spread the virus to others. It is also important to remember that people who get HFMD and show no symptoms of the disease can still spread the viruses that cause it.

Who Is at Risk for HFMD?

HFMD mostly infects children under 10 years of age, but older children and adults can also get the disease. Individuals who get HFMD develop immunity to the specific virus that caused their infection. However, because HFMD can be caused by several different viruses, people can get the disease again if they are infected by one of the other HFMD-causing viruses.

Can HFMD Be Treated?

There is no specific treatment for HFMD. Fever and pain can be managed with over-the-counter fever reducers/pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Mouthwashes or sprays that numb pain can also be used to lessen mouth discomfort. In addition, individuals with HFMD should drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration.

If you think your child has HFMD, call your healthcare provider immediately.

Can HFMD Be Prevented?

While there is no vaccine to protect against HFMD, the risk of getting the disease can be reduced by washing hands frequently, thoroughly cleaning contaminated items and surfaces, and avoiding close contact (e.g., kissing, hugging) with people who are infected.

Is HFMD the Same as Foot-and-Mouth Disease?

No. HFMD is often confused with foot-and-mouth (also called hoof-and-mouth) disease, which affects cattle, sheep, and swine. For information on foot-and-mouth disease, visit the Web site of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

For More Information

• Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Fast Facts
• Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Q&As
• Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Q&As (en Español)
• Clean Hands Save Lives! includes tips on handwashing and when to wash your hands
• Outbreak Notice: Hand, foot, and mouth disease in Asia