Are Hand, Foot & Mouth Cases on the Rise? What Parents Need to Know This Season

As we move through the colder months, many children’s immune systems are working overtime. Schools, nurseries, and playgroups are full of little ones sharing toys, hugs and unfortunately, infections. One illness we’re seeing more often at this time of year is Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD).

If your child’s school has recently mentioned cases going around, you’re not alone. Here’s what you need to know to protect your family, ease symptoms, and understand when to keep children home.

What Is Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease?

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease is a common viral infection, usually caused by the coxsackievirus. It mostly affects young children, though anyone can catch it.

It gets its name from its typical symptoms:

• Small red spots or blisters on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth

• A mild fever

• Sore throat

• Reduced appetite

• General tiredness or irritability

Most cases are mild and clear up within 7–10 days.

Why Is It So Common This Time of Year?

Autumn and winter create the perfect conditions for viruses to spread:

• Children are indoors more often

• Classrooms and nurseries are close-contact environments

• Cooler weather weakens natural defences

• Many seasonal illnesses overlap, making it easier for infections to circulate
  
  

HFMD thrives in environments where lots of little hands touch shared surfaces, toys, books, and play equipment, so schools often see a spike around now.

How Does It Spread?

HFMD is very contagious, especially in the first few days. It spreads through:

• Coughs and sneezes

• Saliva

• Fluid from blisters

• Touching contaminated surfaces

Even after symptoms improve, children can still carry the virus for a few weeks.

What Are The Early Symptoms Of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease?

Parents often first notice:

• A fever

• A grumpy or unusually tired child

• Loss of appetite

• Complaints of a mouth or throat soreness

A day or two later, small spots or blisters may appear.

How Can I Help My Child Feel Better?

There is no specific cure for HFMD, but symptoms can be managed at home:

Keep them hydrated

Mouth ulcers can make drinking uncomfortable, so offer:

• Water

• Smoothies

• Ice lollies

• Soups

Avoid acidic drinks like orange juice, which can sting.

Ease fever or pain

Paracetamol or ibuprofen (age-appropriate doses) can help with discomfort. Never give aspirin to children.

Keep them home if needed

Children can usually return to school or nursery when:

• They feel well enough

• They have no fever

• Any blisters are dry (or can be covered)

Schools don’t normally require exclusion unless the child is unwell.

Comfort those mouth sores

Soft foods such as yoghurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and cereals soaked in milk help reduce irritation.

How to Stop It Spreading at Home

Good hygiene makes a huge difference:

• Encourage frequent handwashing

• Use tissues for sneezes and bin them straight away

• Clean shared surfaces (toys, doorknobs, tablets)

• Avoid sharing cups or cutlery

• Keep siblings from touching active blisters

A few simple steps can help protect the rest of the family.

When Should I Seek Medical Advice For Hand, Foot And Mouth Disease?

You should speak to a healthcare professional if your child:

• Has trouble swallowing or isn’t drinking

• Shows signs of dehydration (dry mouth, fewer wet nappies, dark urine)

• Has a persistent high fever

• Is unusually drowsy or difficult to wake

• Has symptoms lasting more than 10 days

• Is under 3 months old

• Has a weakened immune system

If something doesn’t feel right, always seek help.

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease can be uncomfortable, but it’s generally mild and short-lived. With cases rising in schools at this time of year, knowing what to look for and how to manage it can help keep children comfortable and reduce household spread.

If you’re ever unsure or need personalised advice, reach out to the professionals here at Wylie Health Clinic, we’re here to help support your family’s health this season.