Hand, foot, and mouth disease
Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness that usually affects infants and children under 5 years old. It causes sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet. While uncomfortable, it's usually mild and resolves on its own within 7-10 days.
Common symptoms
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Painful mouth sores
- Skin rash on palms and soles
- Rash on buttocks
- Loss of appetite
- Irritability in infants
- Drooling
Cause
HFMD is caused by viruses from the enterovirus family, most commonly coxsackievirus A16. It spreads through close contact, respiratory droplets, and contact with infected fluids from blisters or feces.
How common is it?
HFMD is extremely common in U.S. children, particularly those under age 5. The CDC reports that HFMD causes hundreds of thousands of infections annually, with peak seasons occurring from summer through fall. Most children will contract HFMD at least once before starting elementary school.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for HFMD. Focus on relieving symptoms: offer cold fluids and soft foods to ease mouth sore pain, use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and discomfort, and ensure adequate hydration.
Be ready before the next sick day
The free kit checklist that covers Hand, foot, and mouth disease and the other bugs going around, so you are stocked before it hits your house.
See parent essentialsPrevention
Prevent spread by frequent handwashing (especially after diaper changes), disinfecting commonly touched surfaces and toys, avoiding close contact like kissing or sharing utensils with infected individuals, and keeping sick children home from school or daycare.
See what's going around
Track Hand, foot, and mouth disease and other illnesses at your child's school in real time.
Frequently asked questions
Hand, foot, and mouth disease articles for parents
- November 2025Understanding Hand, Foot, and Mouth DiseaseEverything parents need to know about this common childhood illness, symptoms, treatment, and when to worry.
- October 2025When Should Kids Stay Home from School?Guidelines to help parents make the tough call about keeping sick kids home.
- December 2025Managing School Sick Days: A Chicago Working Parent's Survival GuideWhen your child is sick and you have work, something has to give. Practical strategies for Chicago parents juggling careers and caregiving.
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Medical disclaimer: Educational only. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.