Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in Children: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
Is your child having fever, mouth ulcers, or blisters on the hands and feet? These could be signs of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD), a common viral infection seen in infants and young children.
What is Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease?
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a contagious viral illness commonly caused by enteroviruses, including Coxsackievirus. It usually affects children below 5 years of age, although older children can also develop the infection.
Common Symptoms of HFMD
Parents should watch for the following symptoms:
- Fever and irritability
- Painful mouth ulcers that may cause difficulty in eating or drinking
- Small red spots or fluid-filled blisters on the palms and soles
- Rashes on the buttocks, legs, or arms
- Reduced appetite and increased drooling
How is HFMD Treated?
HFMD usually resolves on its own within 7–10 days. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing dehydration.
- Offer plenty of fluids to maintain hydration.
- Give soft, cool foods that are easy to swallow.
- Use paracetamol for fever or pain as advised by your pediatrician.
- Avoid spicy, salty, and acidic foods if your child has mouth ulcers.
- Do not give antibiotics unless a bacterial infection is diagnosed.
Important: Seek urgent medical attention if your child is unable to drink, passes very little urine, becomes unusually sleepy, develops breathing difficulty, or has severe headache or neck stiffness.
How Can Parents Prevent HFMD?
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
- Clean and disinfect toys and frequently touched surfaces.
- Avoid sharing utensils, towels, and drinking bottles.
- Keep an unwell child away from school or daycare while feverish or feeling unwell, and follow local school and medical guidance.
HFMD can spread through respiratory secretions, blister fluid, contaminated surfaces, and stool.
When Should You Consult a Pediatrician?
Consult your pediatrician if your child has persistent fever, painful mouth ulcers, poor oral intake, signs of dehydration, or a rash that is worsening or looks unusual.
Dr Shubhanshu Saini
Consultant Pediatrician | Child Health and Vaccination
For pediatric consultation, fever assessment, mouth ulcers, childhood rashes, and other child health concerns, contact Dr Shubhanshu Saini Children Clinic and Vaccination Centre.
Early assessment and appropriate supportive care help keep your child comfortable and reduce the risk of complications.