Symptom Checker

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a contagious viral illness that can cause fever, painful mouth sores and a rash or small blisters on the hands, feet and other areas.

Enteroviruses, especially coxsackieviruses, cause hand, foot and mouth disease. Different strains can produce slightly different symptoms and rash patterns.

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AAP Guide to Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

The AAP guide below explains what to expect, how to keep your child comfortable and hydrated, and when to call us.

AAP Symptom CheckerHand, foot and mouth

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

Your child drinks much less than usual or urinates much less.
Mouth pain is severe enough that your child cannot stay hydrated.
Fever or other symptoms persist or become worse.
Your child appears very ill or you are unsure of the diagnosis.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

Your child has severe dehydration or is very difficult to wake.
Your child has severe trouble breathing or another life-threatening symptom.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

Hours, addresses and directions

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

AAP Guide to Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

When to see a doctor

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

More on skin and rashes