Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD)
How is HFMD diagnosed?
Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is typically diagnosed through a clinical examination.
How is HFMD treated?
Most cases of HFMD respond well to conservative treatment at home. Being sufficiently hydrated is key to recovery. You should:
- Ensure adequate rest and fluids.
- Use oral numbing drops or gels to coat painful oral ulcers in younger children and infants. You can also give regular paracetamol and ibuprofen for pain relief prior to feeding.
- Provide cool food and drinks. Cool food and liquids such as juices, ice cream or yoghurt may be easier to eat with a painful mouth.
- Allow blisters to dry out naturally. Usually, the blisters are not itchy and do not require additional creams, lotions or medication for symptom relief.
- Observe good hand hygiene while taking care of your child to prevent the disease from spreading.
Note: You should bring your child to a doctor for clearance to return to childcare or school when their blisters have fully dried up and oral ulcers have healed.
This page has been reviewed by our medical content reviewers.
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