Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common, mild illness caused by a type of virus called an enterovirus.

It is usually caused by the coxsackie A virus, but in some cases can be caused by the coxsackie B or the enterovirus 71 virus.

Hand, foot and mouth disease gets its name from the non-itchy rash that develops on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet. It can also cause ulcers in your mouth and make you feel generally unwell, although some people have no symptoms (see Symptoms for more information).

Who is affected?

Hand, foot and mouth disease is very contagious (easily spread) and is common in children under 10 years of age. However, adolescents and adults can also be affected.

Most adults are immune to the coxsackie A and B virus as they have been previously exposed to it during their childhood. Adults who develop the disease usually experience milder symptoms than children.

It is possible to catch hand, foot and mouth disease more than once, but children are unlikely to catch it again during the same outbreak.

Outlook

Generally, hand, foot and mouth disease is a mild and short-lasting illness. Treatment is usually not needed as the body's immune system clears the virus and symptoms go away after about 7 to 10 days.