Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a very contagious illness caused by a virus. The disease gets its name from the blister-like rash that forms on your child’s hands and feet and painful sores that develop in their mouth. The rash can actually appear anywhere on their body, including their chest, back, arms, legs, genitals and buttocks.

Infants and children younger than 5 are most likely to get hand, foot and mouth disease. It tends to spread quickly among children in daycare and schools. Still, older children and even adults can get it. Because several viruses can cause the disease, it’s possible to get HFMD multiple times.

Hand, foot and mouth disease is typically mild and usually clears up on its own within seven to 10 days.