![](https://www.udayavani.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/net-India-pti-fiel-415x233.png)
![](https://www.udayavani.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/net-India-pti-fiel-415x233.png)
Team Udayavani, Apr 26, 2019, 10:36 AM IST
Hand, Foot and Mouth disease (HFMD) is a mild and brief illness, more common among younger children less than 10 years. This disease has no connection with animals. This is an infectious disease that spreads through coughing and sneezing. It can also be passed on if one comes in contact with the fluid in blisters. Such outbreaks could occur in schools. It manifests as an infection resulting in high fever initially.
Signs would include typical rash, sore throat and small spots inside the mouth. Spots in the form of small lumps may appear on the lips and around the mouth as well causing mouth ulcer. They may also appear on the skin, hand, feet and buttocks. This should not be mistaken for chickenpox.
HFMD may last up to a week or 10 days. One needs to wait until the illness goes away on its own as there is no treatment to kill the virus. Medication on doctor’s advice could be given to bring the temperature caused by fever down and ease the symptoms to make the patient feel comfortable as ulcers could be painful and sore throat can make children and even adults feel miserable.
Prevention and treatment:
Even adults are prone to HFMD without any symptoms, which may not be severe most of the time. Conditions usually improve over time without any treatment as it is self-healing. Always consult a doctor for medical advice to relieve pain. Good hand hygiene can prevent the disease to a large extent. Generally, a person is more contagious during the first week of illness with hand, foot, and mouth disease. Most people may be contagious even after symptoms go away for a few days or weeks. It is highly recommended to always maintain good hygiene in order to minimise the chance of spreading the virus and getting infected.
Dr. Mohit Singhal
MBBS, MD, (Paediatrics), DNB
Consultant Neonatology and Paediatrics
Apollo Cradle, Brookefield
Bengaluru
Udayavani is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel and stay updated with the latest news.
To ban or not to ban? Countries debate regulations on smartphone usage in schools
Air pollution, extreme weather could increase risk of prolonged pregnancy: Study
Carbohydrate cravings may be related to overall severity of depression: Study
SAHAYOGA: Comprehensive care for children with Type 1 Diabetes launched at MAHE Manipal
Newer Advances in Blood Cancer Treatment
India Nets: Shami works on lengths with Morkel, Pant recovers after freak hit by Hardik shot
To ban or not to ban? Countries debate regulations on smartphone usage in schools
PM didn’t tell his good friend about country’s outrage over handcuffing Indian deportees: Congress
Maha Kumbh: Akhilesh seeks compensation to kin of devotees killed in accidents
“Namma Sante” buzz: From coconut shell art to pure honey delights!
You seem to have an Ad Blocker on.
To continue reading, please turn it off or whitelist Udayavani.