Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease

Bartlett Location Appointments:

630-289-8800

Hoffman Estates Location Appointments:

847-352-3630

Poison Control:

800-222-1222

EMERGENCY:

CALL 911

Is Your Child Sick?

A child in bed looking away with a concerned expression. A camouflage blanket and orange pillow.

Select from over 100 symptoms to learn about managing your child's illness.

Hand-foot-mouth disease is a common viral illness caused by the Coxsackie A-16 virus (a member of the enterovirus family). Its name describes the location of the rash during the illness.

Typically children experience fever and small blisters in the mouth in the first few days followed by small blisters on the hands and then feet.  Sometimes the rash is seen in the diaper area as well.  The mouth blisters can be painful.  Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be given as needed for pain relief.  It is important to make sure your child receives plenty of fluids.  Cold liquids may provide pain relief as well.  


Call our office for an appointment if you think your child may be showing symptoms of dehydration during this illness (urinating less than every 8 hours, dry mouth, or lethargy); if the fever persists after the first 3-4 days; or if you cannot keep the pain under control.


See Also: Mouth Ulcers Rash or Redness - Widespread