Understanding Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) : What Parents Need to Know

Understanding Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) : What Parents Need to Know

By Gina Koay Award-Winning Community Pharmacist , Founder of City Wellness Pharmacy,Dedicated to Advancing Preventive Healthcare

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Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral illness that typically affects infants and young children under the age of 10. As a community pharmacist, I often meet worried parents seeking advice during HFMD outbreaks. The disease can spread quickly, especially in daycare centres and kindergartens.

Let’s take a closer look at what HFMD is, how to identify it, and how you can manage symptoms safely at home.

What is HFMD?

HFMD is caused by a group of viruses, most commonly the Coxsackievirus A16 and Enterovirus 71. It spreads through direct contact with nasal discharge, saliva, fluid from blisters, or stool of an infected person.

While usually mild, HFMD can be uncomfortable for little ones and distressing for parents. In rare cases, complications such as dehydration or viral meningitis can occur — so early recognition and proper care are essential.

Signs and Symptoms Symptoms typically appear 3 to 7 days after exposure to the virus and may include:

  • Fever (often the first sign)
  • Sore throat
  • Mouth ulcers — painful red spots or blisters, often on the tongue, gums, or inner cheeks
  • Skin rash — flat or raised red spots on the palms, soles, knees, elbows, or buttocks
  • Irritability and poor appetite, especially in younger children
  • Lethargy

Blisters in the mouth and on the hands or feet can be painful, making eating and walking difficult for children.

Managing HFMD at Home HFMD has no specific cure — it usually resolves on its own within 7 to 10 days. However, symptom relief and supportive care are crucial to keep your child comfortable and hydrated. Here’s how you can help: 1. Control Fever and Pain paracetamol or ibuprofen (age-appropriate doses) to manage fever and reduce pain from ulcers and rashes.

 

2. Maintain Good Hydration

• Encourage frequent sips of water or oral rehydration solutions.

• Offer soft, cool foods (like yogurt or porridge or even ice-cream) to avoid irritating mouth ulcers.

3. Topical Relief for Itchy Rash

•  Pine tar and menthol cream  are recommended as a soothing topical option for itchy rashes or blistered skin.

• Pine tar has anti-inflammatory and antipruritic (anti-itch) properties.

• Menthol provides a cooling effect that helps calm irritated skin.

• Apply gently to affected areas 2 to 3 times daily, avoiding broken skin or open blisters.

4. Practise Good Hygiene

• Keep fingernails short to reduce scratching.

• Disinfect toys, surfaces, and hands frequently to prevent spread, especially if other children are in the home.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While HFMD is usually mild, see a doctor immediately if your child:

  • Refuses to drink fluids
  • Has a persistent high fever (>39°C)
  • Appears very drowsy, lethargic or irritable
  • Shows signs of dehydration (dry lips, reduced urine output)
  • Develops seizures or stiffness in the neck 

As a parent or caregiver, it can be distressing to see your child in discomfort.

If you have any concerns about managing HFMD at home, feel free to drop by and speak with our pharmacist — early support and good care can make all the difference in your child’s recovery.

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