28/07/2026
Hand, foot and mouth disease is common in children under 5 years old. The illness is usually not serious, but it is very contagious. It spreads quickly at schools.
Transmission:
*Person to person contact
*Respiratory droplets containing virus particles when an infected person coughs or sneezes
*Contact with contaminated surfaces and objects
Signs and symptoms:
*Fever
*Eating or drinking less
*Sore throat
*Feeling unwell
*Mouth sores
*Skin rash on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It can also show up on the buttocks, legs and arms. The rash usually is not itchy and sometimes with blisters. Keep blisters clean and avoid touching them.
Treatment:
Relieve symptoms and prevent dehydration
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR? 👩⚕️
-Your child is not drinking enough to stay hydrated
-Symptoms do not improve after 10 days
-Your child has a weakened immune system
-Symptoms are severe
-Your child is very young, especially younger than 6 months
You can help prevent catching or spreading hand, foot, and mouth disease by following these simple steps:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
-Disinfect touched surfaces and shared items.
-Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
-Avoid close contact or touching someone who has hand, foot, and mouth disease.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
