Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a viral illness that primarily affects infants and children, causing symptoms such as fever, sores in the mouth, and a rash on the hands and feet. It is typically caused by viruses belonging to the enterovirus genus, particularly coxsackievirus.

You might have hand, foot, and mouth disease if you have:

Sores or blisters on the hands, feet, or mouth
Fever or general discomfort
Irritability or loss of appetite
  • Enteroviruses such as coxsackievirus A16 or enterovirus 71
  • Close personal contact with an infected person, or contact with contaminated surfaces or objects
  • Poor hygiene practices, especially hand washing
  • Fever, often accompanied by sore throat and feeling unwell
  • Painful sores or ulcers in the mouth, throat, or tongue
  • Rash or blisters on the hands, feet, or bum
  • Ensure the infected person gets plenty of rest
  • Encourage fluids to prevent dehydration
  • Use over-the-counter medications for pain relief and fever reduction as directed
  • Practise good hygiene, including frequent hand washing and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces
A young boy affected by hand, foot and mouth disease holds up his hand to the camera which shows the typical blisters caused by the illness.

Order your prescription online đź’Š

Get your NHS prescriptions from a trusted pharmacy – Free delivery available nationwide…