What is it? Hand, foot, and mouth syndrome is a mild disease caused by coxsackievirus. Symptoms may include fever; sore throat; stomach pain and diarrhea; and a rash of tiny blisters on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and in the mouth. It is most common in the summer and fall.

Who gets it? Adults and children can get it but it is most common among young children.

How do they get it? Coxsackievirus is spread by stool to mouth. Stool gets on hands or objects and then onto other people's hands and mouths. The virus may also be spread by direct contact with discharge from nose and throat. People usually get sick 3 to 6 days after being exposed to the virus.

How is it treated? There is no specific treatment available.

How is it diagnosed? Diagnosis is usually based on clinical symptoms described above.

Should people be excluded? No. If they are well enough to attend, there is no need to exclude. Because the virus is contagious before symptoms begin, other children and staff have already been exposed.

What should you do? Follow strict handwashing and personal hygiene procedures. Always wash hands, especially after using the bathroom or diapering or assisting a child in the bathroom and before eating or handling food. Please notify us if your child develops this illness.

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