Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease

Information from the CDC: Hand, foot, and mouth disease, or HFMD, is a contagious illness that is caused by different viruses. Infants and children younger than 5 years old are more likely to get this disease. However, older children and adults can also get it. In the United States it is more common for people to get HFMD from spring to fall.

Symptoms usually begin with a fever, reduced appetite, sore throat, and a feeling of being unwell. A day or two after the fever starts, painful sores can develop in the mouth. A skin rash with flat red spots may also develop on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Sometimes a rash also occurs on the knees, elbows, and buttocks. This rash may blister but won't itch.

Not everyone will get all of these symptoms. Some people may show no symptoms at all, but they can still pass the virus to others.

Resources for the General Public

• HFMD Fact Sheet updated 10/29/15
• CDC Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease Main Page

Resources for Healthcare Providers

• CDC Podcast: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease [4:20 minutes]
• State of Alaska: Infectious Disease Management Guidelines for Alaska Schools