Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a highly contagious viral illness that commonly affects children under 10 years old, but can occasionally occur in older children and adults. The disease is not related to foot-and-mouth disease, which affects livestock. In Australia, outbreaks are most frequent in childcare centres, kindergartens, and schools.
Symptoms of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Symptoms typically appear 3 to 7 days after infection and may last for 7 to 10 days. The most common symptoms include:
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Small, painful blisters inside the mouth, on the hands, feet, and sometimes buttocks or nappy area.
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Fever and sore throat
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Loss of appetite, tiredness, and irritability
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Difficulty swallowing due to mouth sores
While children are more severely affected, adults may have milder symptoms or none at all.
How Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Spreads
HFMD is caused by Coxsackievirus A16 or Enterovirus 71 and spreads easily through:
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Close personal contact
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Contact with nasal or throat secretions, saliva, or fluid from blisters
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Contact with infected faeces (poo)
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Touching contaminated objects or surfaces
The virus can remain in the body for weeks after symptoms disappear, making good hygiene crucial.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Most cases of HFMD resolve on their own, but seek medical advice if:
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Fever persists for more than 72 hours
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Child experiences dehydration (e.g., reduced urination)
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Symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days
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There are signs of a more serious infection, such as:
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Excessive drowsiness or irritability
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Rapid breathing
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Jerking movements or difficulty walking
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Treatment for Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
There’s no specific treatment for HFMD, and antibiotics are ineffective since it’s a viral infection. You can manage symptoms with:
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Paracetamol for pain and fever (ask your pharmacist for the correct dose)
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Oral rehydration solutions, ice blocks, or jelly to soothe a sore mouth and prevent dehydration
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Soft foods to make eating easier
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Plenty of rest at home until blisters dry up
Avoid bursting blisters as the fluid inside is infectious.
Preventing Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in Australia
To reduce the spread of HFMD:
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Wash hands thoroughly after changing nappies, wiping noses, or caring for sick children.
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Clean and disinfect surfaces and toys regularly.
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Teach children to cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
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Avoid sharing utensils, towels, and toys.
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Keep infected children home from childcare or school until blisters have dried.
Complications of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Complications are rare but can include:
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Secondary bacterial infections if blisters are scratched
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Nail loss or changes a few weeks after infection (nails usually grow back)
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In very rare cases, HFMD can cause serious complications like viral meningitis or encephalitis.
Conclusion
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common and contagious viral illness in Australia, especially affecting young children. While the disease often resolves on its own within 7 to 10 days, proper symptom management and hygiene practices are essential to prevent its spread. Monitoring symptoms closely and seeking medical advice if complications arise can ensure a quick and safe recovery. By staying informed and vigilant, parents can effectively protect their children and communities from HFMD outbreaks.
