School is back in full swing here in Texas, which also means kids are spending more time together—and sharing those pesky germs that can spread quickly in classrooms, daycares, and playgrounds.
One common illness that parents may encounter is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFM). HFM is a common viral infection that primarily affects infants and children under age 5, although older children and adults can get it too. While HFM is usually mild and resolves on its own, the mouth sores and rash can be uncomfortable for little ones.
Knowing what symptoms to watch for, how HFM spreads, and how to keep your child comfortable can help you navigate the illness with confidence.
What Is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is a contagious illness caused by a group of viruses called enteroviruses, most commonly coxsackieviruses.
Early symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Decreased appetite
- Irritability or fussiness
- Feeling tired or generally unwell
A day or two after symptoms begin, painful sores or blisters may develop in the mouth. A rash or small blisters may also appear on the hands and feet, and sometimes on the legs, arms, buttocks, or other areas of the body.
Not every child will experience every symptom, and the severity can vary from child to child.
How Does HFM Spread?
HFM spreads easily from person to person, especially in settings where young children are in close contact.
The virus can spread through:
- Respiratory droplets and secretions from coughing, sneezing, or talking
- Saliva and mucus
- Fluid from blisters
- Stool, particularly during diaper changes or bathroom use
- Contact with contaminated surfaces or objects
Children are generally most contagious during the first week of illness, but the virus can remain in the stool for several weeks after symptoms have improved. Good hand hygiene is especially important after diaper changes and bathroom trips to help reduce the spread.
Washing hands frequently with soap and water, cleaning commonly touched surfaces, and avoiding close contact with someone who is sick can all help reduce transmission.
How Long Does HFM Last?
Most children recover from HFM within 7 to 10 days. The fever and other early symptoms typically improve first, while mouth sores and skin rashes may take a little longer to completely resolve.
Because HFM is caused by a virus, antibiotics do not treat the infection. Treatment is focused on keeping your child comfortable and preventing dehydration while their body fights the virus.
How to Help Your Child Feel Better at Home
There is no specific treatment that cures HFM, but there are several ways to help ease your child’s symptoms:
- Fever and pain relief: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help reduce fever and discomfort. Use medications according to your child’s age, weight, and your healthcare provider’s recommendations. Do not give aspirin to children.
- Soothe mouth sores: Soft, cool foods and drinks—such as yogurt, smoothies, applesauce, or popsicles—may be easier and more comfortable to eat. Avoid acidic, spicy, or salty foods if they irritate the sores.
- Focus on hydration: Encourage frequent sips of water, milk, or other appropriate fluids. If mouth sores make drinking painful, offering small amounts frequently may be easier.
- Rest: Give your child plenty of opportunities to rest while they recover.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Most cases of HFM can be managed at home, but there are times when your child should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Seek medical care if your child:
- Is having trouble drinking or cannot keep fluids down
- Has signs of dehydration, such as a very dry mouth, significantly fewer wet diapers or trips to the bathroom, or unusual sleepiness
- Has a fever that is severe, persistent, or concerning for their age
- Has symptoms that are getting worse instead of better
- Is unusually difficult to wake, very weak, or not acting like themselves
- Has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their condition
If you’re unsure whether your child’s symptoms are consistent with HFM or another illness, a healthcare provider can evaluate their symptoms and help determine the appropriate next steps.
When Can They Go Back to School or Daycare?
This is the big question parents ask! Children can usually return to school or daycare when:
- They have been fever-free for 24 hours
- Their blisters have started to heal and are no longer open.
This often takes about a week, but each school may have its own rules.
At Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care, we see children with HFM frequently, especially during the school year. With multiple convenient locations across Texas, our walk-in clinics are here to help kids up to age 21 feel better fast. Book online today or walk in to a clinic near you!
