Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common viral illness that mainly affects children under 10 years old, but can sometimes affect older children and adults. It is usually caused by infection with the coxsackievirus virus. This is not the same as foot-and-mouth disease, which affects farm animals.
Hand, foot and mouth disease is highly contagious. It’s especially common in childcare and kindergartens.
The main symptoms are fever and tiny blisters on the cheeks, gums and sides of the mouth and on the hands and feet. The blisters can also occur in the groin and elsewhere. Children may also have a sore throat.
There is no specific treatment for hand, foot and mouth disease. But it’s possible to improve comfort by treating the symptoms with paracetamol, rest and plenty to drink.
The blisters usually last for 7 to 10 days.
Should I keep my child home from school?
Yes, until all blisters have dried.
Here’s a list of common childhood illnesses, including hand, foot and mouth disease, and their recommended exclusion periods.
Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content.
Last reviewed: November 2020