Hand, foot, and mouth disease

Hand, Foot and Mouth disease (HFM) is caused by a virus called Coxsackie Virus. This virus can lead to fever as well as HFM and Herpangina.

HFM can cause blisters on the palms and soles, genital area/buttocks, as well as blisters in the mouth, on the tongue, roof of mouth, and inner cheeks. Fever can develop as well. Typically, oral ulcers last 3-5 days, and blisters on the body can last up to 10 days.

Herpangina, also caused by a subtype of Coxsackie virus, will give your child blisters in the back of their throat and fever. This can cause your child to feel pain similar to that of strep throat. Your child may feel ill and lose his appetite. This illness may last 5-7 days.

You can give your child Tylenol and Motrin to help with pain and fever. If your child is old enough, we can also prescribe a “Magic Mouthwash” that he or she may gargle and spit out that will help numb the pain in the mouth.