Hand, Foot, & Mouth Disease

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Baby sucking on toes

Hand, foot, and mouth disease, or HFMD, is a contagious illness that is caused by different viruses. It is common in infants and children younger than 5 years old, because they do not yet have immunity (protection) to the viruses that cause HFMD. However, older children and adults can also get HFMD. In the United States it is more common for people to get HFMD during spring, summer, and fall.

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Key Facts

  • Usually causes fever, painful sores in the mouth, and a rash on the hands and feet.
  • HFMD is a contagious disease.
  • It mostly affects infants and children younger than 5 years old but people of any age can be infected.
  • It has no specific treatment.
  • Infection risk can be reduced by practicing good hygiene such as washing hands often.

Media

Soapy hands under faucet

Preventing HFMD

Wash your hands often with soap and water especially after changing diapers, and help young children do the same; avoid close contact such as kissing, hugging, and sharing cups and eating utensils with people who have HFMD; and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.

Baby taking medicine

HFMD Treatment

There is no specific treatment for HFMD. Fever and pain can be managed with over-the-counter fever reducers and pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. It is important for people with HFMD to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration (loss of body fluids).

Young girl with a fever

Is HFMD Serious?

HFMD is usually not serious. The illness is typically mild, and nearly all people recover in 7 - 10 days without medical treatment. Complications are uncommon. Rarely, an infected person can develop viral meningitis and may need to be hospitalized for a few days. Other more rare complications can include polio-like paralysis or encephalitis (brain inflammation), which can be fatal.

Sick young boy

Contagiousness

People with HFMD are most contagious during the first week of their illness. However, they may sometimes remain contagious for weeks after symptoms go away. Some people, especially adults, may not develop any symptoms, but they can still spread the viruses to others.

Prevention Tips

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after changing diapers.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact such as kissing, hugging, and sharing cups and eating utensils with people who have HFMD.
  • Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, including objects such as toys and doorknobs.

More at CDC.gov

Page last reviewed: July 2, 2018
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention