Overview
Hand, foot and mouth disease is usually mild and gets better within 7 to 10 days. It is not related to foot-and-mouth disease in animals.
Symptoms
- Fever and sore throat
- Painful sores in the mouth
- A rash or blisters on the hands, feet and sometimes buttocks
- Loss of appetite and irritability
Causes and risk factors
It is caused by enteroviruses such as coxsackievirus and spreads through saliva, blister fluid and stool. It spreads easily in nurseries and schools.
Diagnosis
A doctor diagnoses it from the symptoms and appearance of the sores.
Treatment
Treatment is fluids, pain and fever relief and soft foods. Good hand washing helps stop it spreading.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if your child is not drinking, has signs of dehydration, has a high fever that lasts or seems very unwell. Seek urgent care for drowsiness, stiff neck or difficulty breathing.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
