Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease

Kids 1st Urgent Care understands that dealing with Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease can be stressful for both children and parents. Our providers approach each case with empathy, offering reassurance and support throughout the treatment process. We provide clear instructions and answer any questions parents might have about managing Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease at home, helping them navigate the illness with confidence. Our compassionate approach and commitment to following the highest clinical standards ensure that your child receives the best possible care for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease.

What is Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease?

Hand-Foot-and-Mouth disease is a viral illness characterized by a distinctive rash. It causes small, blister-like bumps in the mouth and a rash on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and sometimes in the diaper area, as well as on the legs, arms, and around the mouth. The mouth lesions typically appear at the back of the throat.

What Causes Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease?

Hand-Foot-and-Mouth disease is caused by viruses, with the most common being:

• Coxsackie viruses
• Other enteroviruses

Although it can infect a person of any age, Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease is especially prevalent in children under 5 years old but can be commonly seen up to age 10 years old. It is most common during summer and fall. The virus spreads through fecal-oral contact or respiratory droplets, though other transmission routes are possible. Good hand-washing practices are crucial to prevent the spread of the disease.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease?

Symptoms may vary, but typically include:

• Blister-like bumps in the mouth, particularly near the throat and tonsils
• Small blisters on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and sometimes in the diaper area, as well as a rash on the arms and legs
• Fever
• Loss of appetite and general malaise

How Is Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is generally made based on a physical examination and history of the child's symptoms. The distinctive rash and mouth blisters typically allow for a straightforward diagnosis.

What Is the Treatment for Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease?

There is no specific antiviral treatment for hand-foot-and-mouth disease. Treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms and may include:

• Increased Fluid Intake: Provide cool, iced fluids in small amounts frequently to prevent dehydration.
• Pain and Fever Relief: Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage fever and discomfort.
• Symptom Management: Since the illness is viral, antibiotics are not effective. Symptoms generally resolve within a week.

Prevention and Hygiene:

• Hand-Washing: Regular hand-washing is essential to prevent spreading the disease.
• Surface Cleaning: Disinfect contaminated surfaces with sanitizers and disinfectants.
• Avoid Close Contact: Stay away from infected individuals. The virus can be transmitted for 1 to 2 weeks after symptoms disappear.

Child-Friendly Environment

Understanding that medical treatments can be stressful for children, all of our providers have been trained by our Child Life Specialists on how to approach your child in a friendly and compassionate manner. We strive to make the experience as stress-free as possible, with a child-centered environment and a caring staff that helps ease any anxiety.

Kids 1st Urgent Care sources its medical research from leading authorities in pediatric medicine, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Texas Children’s Hospital.