What Parents Should Know About Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD)

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection that mostly affects children under the age of five. Although it usually runs a mild course, HFMD can cause discomfort and concern for both children and parents. Knowing the signs, understanding how it spreads, and recognising when to seek medical advice can make a big difference in managing the illness effectively.

What Are the Symptoms of HFMD?

HFMD symptoms typically appear three to six days after exposure. Early identification can help reduce the spread and ensure your child gets the right care.

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Reduced appetite
• Irritability in infants and toddlers
• Painful red spots or blisters on the:
  • Hands
  • Feet
  • Buttocks
  • Inside the mouth (particularly the tongue and inner cheeks)
• General feeling of being unwell

These symptoms usually resolve within 7 to 10 days.

Who Is at Risk of Getting HFMD?

While HFMD is most common in young children, especially those in childcare or preschool settings, it's important to know that adults can get HFMD too—especially if they haven't been previously exposed to the virus.

In adults, symptoms may be milder or even absent, but they can still pass the virus to others. Practising good hygiene is crucial for preventing the spread, particularly in households with young children.

HFMD or Chickenpox? How to Tell the Difference

HFMD and chickenpox can look alike at first glance, especially with both causing rashes and fever. However, there are key differences to help you distinguish between the two:

If you’re unsure, a paediatrician can provide an accurate diagnosis.

Is There a Cure for HFMD?

There’s no specific antiviral treatment for HFMD. However, supportive care can help relieve symptoms and speed up recovery. Most children recover on their own within a week or so.

Helpful at-home care tips include:

• Ensuring plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration
• Offering soft foods to avoid irritating mouth sores
• Using fever reducers like paracetamol (as advised by a doctor)
• Keeping your child at home to prevent spreading the virus

Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, your child is unusually drowsy, dehydrated, or if fever persists beyond a few days.

Can You Get HFMD More Than Once?

Many parents are surprised to learn that HFMD can occur more than once. While your child may develop immunity to the specific strain of virus that caused their first infection, HFMD is caused by several different types of enteroviruses. This means reinfection is possible if they’re exposed to a different strain.

Practising good hygiene and keeping sick children at home during the contagious period can help reduce the risk of spreading or catching the virus again.

Meet Our Trusted Paediatricians

At Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), our experienced paediatricians are here to provide compassionate, expert care for children with HFMD and other common childhood illnesses. We understand that nothing is more important than your child’s health—and we’re committed to supporting families every step of the way.

Whether it’s a first-time concern or a recurring issue, our specialists are ready to help with personalised care plans and evidence-based treatments.

SJMC’s List of Paediatricians
https://subangjayamedicalcentre.com/specialties/paediatrics-malaysia 

Have a question about HFMD?

Contact our TeleConnect team for 24-Hour medical enquiries & speak to our medically trained professionals.

📞 Call: +603 5639 1818
📲 WhatsApp: +603 5639 1818

Book an Appointment with Us

Don’t wait if your child is showing signs of HFMD. Early consultation ensures peace of mind and timely care.

📞 Call our 24-hour Careline at +603 5639 1212
📍 Book an appointment online: https://subangjayamedicalcentre.com/appointment

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