Hand foot and mouth

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a contagious viral illness, usually affecting young children. It can cause mouth sores and a rash or blisters on the hands and feet, sometimes with fever. It is different from the animal disease with a similar name. Drinking and general wellbeing are important to monitor.

What does it usually look like?

A child may first feel unwell or have a sore throat, then develop painful mouth lesions and spots or blisters. Not every child has the same pattern. Other rashes and mouth conditions can look similar, so seek assessment if the diagnosis is uncertain or the child seems unusually unwell.

Tell the clinician about fever, drinking, wet nappies or urine, and any known childcare exposure. Adults can also become infected. A photograph may help show the rash, but it does not show hydration or all aspects of the child's condition.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: Hand, foot and mouth disease - Healthdirect Australia.

What can I do at home?

If the child is otherwise well, offer comfortable, age-appropriate fluids and foods they can tolerate. Mouth pain may make drinking difficult, which is a reason to seek advice rather than simply waiting for the rash to settle. A pharmacist or doctor can discuss suitable comfort measures.

Wash hands carefully, especially after toileting or changing nappies, and clean frequently handled surfaces. Avoid sharing drinking utensils. Check the child's childcare or school policy and current health advice before returning. Do not assume the disappearance of one blister answers every question about infection control.

When should a child be assessed urgently?

Poor drinking, signs of dehydration, unusual drowsiness, rapid breathing, abnormal movements or difficulty walking needs prompt assessment. A persistent fever or worsening illness also deserves review. Call 000 for severe breathing difficulty, collapse or reduced consciousness. Telehealth can help direct care, but a child with concerning symptoms needs an in-person examination.

Where to go next

Read online doctor consultations to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.