Hand, foot and mouth disease is a contagious viral infection seen especially in babies and young children. It usually causes sores inside the mouth and a rash or blisters on the hands and feet. Although most cases are mild, it can cause pain, loss of appetite and fluid loss in children.
Spec. Dr. Kadir Mutlu, Pediatrician (Child Health and Diseases) at İzmir Özel Can Hastanesi, shared important information about hand, foot and mouth disease in children.
What Is Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease?
Hand, foot and mouth disease is most often caused by coxsackieviruses and certain other enteroviruses. It is especially common in children under 5, but it can also develop in older children and adults.
It can spread more easily in settings where children are in close contact, such as daycare centers, preschools and schools.
How Is Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Transmitted?
The viruses that cause the disease can be found in various body fluids of an infected person.
Routes of transmission include:
- Droplets spread by coughing and sneezing
- Contact with saliva
- Shared cups, forks or toys
- Contact with the fluid inside the blisters
- Inadequate hand hygiene after using the toilet
- Touching surfaces contaminated with the virus
For this reason, it can spread rapidly, especially among children in daycare and school.
What Are the Symptoms of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease?
Symptoms usually appear a few days after exposure to the virus. The illness often progresses in two stages. In the first days, symptoms similar to the flu or a common cold appear, followed by mouth sores and a rash.
Fever
One of the first symptoms of the illness is a mild to moderate fever.
Sore Throat
Children may have pain when swallowing and throat discomfort.
Loss of Appetite
Because of the sores in the mouth, the child may refuse to eat or drink.
Mouth Sores
Painful sores may form on the tongue, palate, inner cheeks and throat. These sores can make it difficult for children to eat.
Rash on the Hands and Feet
Red spots or small fluid-filled blisters may appear on the palms, the soles of the feet and sometimes other areas of the hands and feet.
Rash on the Buttocks and Legs
In some children, the rash may also spread to the buttocks, knees and elbows.
How Long Does the Illness Last?
Hand, foot and mouth disease usually clears up on its own within 7 to 10 days. In most children the fever subsides within the first few days, while it may take a little longer for the mouth sores and skin findings to disappear completely.
In most children the fever subsides within the first few days, while it may take a little longer for the mouth sores and skin findings to disappear completely.
How Is Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Treated?
There is no specific treatment that eliminates the virus. The aim of treatment is to relieve symptoms and keep the child comfortable.
Ensure Adequate Fluid Intake
Children may not want to drink water because of mouth sores. However, regular fluid intake is important to prevent dehydration.
Soft Foods Can Be Preferred
Soft foods such as yogurt, soup and purées can reduce the discomfort caused by mouth sores. Avoiding very hot, spicy or acidic foods may be helpful.
Rest Is Important
Adequate rest should be ensured so the body can fight the infection.
Medications Should Be Used on a Doctor’s Advice
Medications for fever and pain control should be evaluated by a doctor according to the child’s age and weight. Aspirin should not be used in children.
What Is the Most Common Complication of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease?
The most common complication of the illness is fluid loss. When a child cannot drink enough because of mouth sores, dehydration can develop. This should be monitored closely, especially in young children.
Signs of dehydration may include:
- Dry mouth
- Decreased urine output
- Weakness and fatigue
- No tears when crying
- Increased sleepiness
When Should You See a Doctor?
Medical evaluation is recommended in the following situations:
- The child is unable to drink fluids
- High fever persists
- Marked weakness or lethargy
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe pain
- Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days
- Signs of dehydration develop
How Can Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Be Prevented?
Although it is not possible to prevent the disease completely, there are measures that can help reduce the risk of transmission.
- Washing hands regularly
- Cleaning toys and frequently touched surfaces
- Not sharing items such as cups, forks and spoons
- Keeping sick children at home to rest while they recover
- Practicing good cough and sneeze hygiene
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days does hand, foot and mouth disease last?
In most children, symptoms improve within 7 to 10 days.
Can adults catch hand, foot and mouth disease?
Yes. Although the disease is more common in children, it can also occur in adults.
Are antibiotics used for hand, foot and mouth disease?
No. Because the disease is caused by a virus, antibiotics are not effective. The need for antibiotics should be assessed only by a doctor.
Can a child with hand, foot and mouth disease go to school or daycare?
Because of the risk of contagion, it may be appropriate for the child to rest at home until their general condition improves. The pediatrician’s recommendations should be followed on this matter.
Is hand, foot and mouth disease dangerous?
Most cases are mild and resolve on their own. However, medical evaluation is important for children who develop dehydration.
The information on our website is not intended to direct individuals to any treatment. Do not take any diagnostic or treatment steps without consulting your doctor. The content does not contain information about İzmir Can Hastanesi's therapeutic healthcare services.
