This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If in doubt, contact your paediatrician or midwife.
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease in Babies
Hand, foot and mouth disease is the classic daycare illness. Small blisters on hands, feet, and in the mouth make eating painful — but the disease is usually harmless and over within 7-10 days. It is, however, highly contagious.
Possible Causes
- 1Coxsackie virus A16 (most common pathogen)
- 2Enterovirus 71 (rarer, can cause more severe illness)
- 3Transmission via droplet infection (coughing, sneezing)
- 4Contact transmission via blister fluid, stool, and saliva
- 5Incubation period 3-6 days, contagious even before symptoms appear
What You Can Do
- Pain relief: paracetamol or ibuprofen (age-appropriate dosage)
- Cool, soft food: yoghurt, purée, mild soups — NO acidic or spicy foods
- Plenty to drink: cold drinks, ice cubes to suck (for toddlers)
- Oral gel with numbing effect before meals
- Regular hand washing, disinfect toys
When to See a Doctor
- Baby hasn't drunk for over 8 hours (dehydration risk)
- High fever above 39°C for more than 3 days
- Signs of dehydration: little urine, no tears, dry lips
- Neck stiffness, severe headaches, or confusion (extremely rare: meningitis)
- Extensive spread of blisters over the entire body
Age-Specific Notes
Most common in children under 5. Babies under 6 months are rarely affected (maternal antibodies). Daycare age (1-3 years): Most common age group. Adults can catch it but often have milder symptoms. TIP: There's often no reporting requirement in daycare, but inform the facility so other parents are warned.
Frequently Asked Questions
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This article is for general information only. It does not replace individual medical advice. If you have concerns, contact your paediatrician, midwife, or call emergency services.