Hand-Foot-and-Mouth: What You Need to Know

Hand-Foot-and-Mouth: What You Need to Know
Posted on 07/17/2024
This is the image for the news article titled Hand-Foot-and-Mouth: What You Need to Know

It's that time of year when we see an increase in cases of HFM. Here's what you need to know about this contagious, though mild, illness.

What is HFM? It's a common and very contagious viral infection typically found among people younger than 5 years old, though anyone can get it.

HFM symptoms are normally mild and last for 7 to 10 days. Symptoms may include:

  • Fever and flu-like symptoms
  • Mouth sores
  • Skin rash found on the hands and feet

A person who is suffering from HFM should see a healthcare provider if they:

  • Are not able to drink normally and they might be getting dehydrated
  • Are not alert and responsive
  • Are experiencing a fever that is lasting longer than 3 days
  • Have symptoms that are not improving after 10 days
  • Have a weekend immune system (body’s ability to fight germs and sickness)
  • Have severe symptoms
  • Are very young, especially younger than 6 months

HFM spreads easily though:

  • Person to person contact
  • Respiratory droplets containing virus particles when an infected person coughs or sneezes
  • Contact with contaminated surfaces and objects

Treatment

  • Most people with HFM get better on their own in 7 to 10 days.
  • There is no specific medical treatment for HFM.
  • Steps can be taken to relieve symptoms and prevent dehydration.

Help prevent the spread of HFM by:

  • Washing your hands
  • Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces
  • Avoid touching your eyes nose, and mouth
  • Avoid close contact with sick people

A child may return to school when the following have resolved:

  • Fever
  • Excessive drooling
  • Mouth sores
  • Open blisters

Questions? Call Salt River Public Health at 480-362-3603.

Click here to view a larger image.

Website by SchoolMessenger Presence. © 2024 SchoolMessenger Corporation. All rights reserved.