Hydration is also very important. Fever and mouth sores can cause children to drink less, increasing the risk of dehydration. Offer fluids often and monitor whether your child is urinating normally.
If they refuse fluids or appear to be in severe pain, contacting a medical professional is recommended.
6. How Contagious This Illness Can Be
HFMD spreads easily through respiratory droplets, fluid from blisters, and contact with infected stool.
For this reason, children with symptoms should stay home from daycare or school until the fever has gone away and the blisters have healed.
Frequent handwashing, cleaning commonly touched surfaces, and avoiding close contact with others can help reduce the risk of spreading the virus within the household.
7. Ways to Ease Pain in the Hands, Feet, and Mouth
There are several simple ways to help reduce your child’s discomfort.
Cool compresses applied to the hands and feet can relieve itching and swelling. Some over-the-counter creams recommended by pharmacists may also help soothe irritated skin.
For mouth sores, gentle saltwater rinses may reduce irritation. It’s best to avoid spicy or acidic foods, which can make the sores sting.