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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Long Does Hand Foot And Mouth Disease Remain Contagious?

with hand foot and mouth disease what is the incubation period, when is the person contagious and for how long? I need to know for daycare. my 9 month old had a fever for almost 4 days and is now finally taking his bottle, but my 3 year old has no symptoms got back from daycare and was told not to return for 10 days. Is this too long a time? The little one has only a few sores left in his mouth and 3 on his feet. The rash on his arms and legs is still present , not itching and whitish in color.
posted on Fri, 25 Jul 2014
Twitter Mon, 13 Oct 2014 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 14 Oct 2014 Last reviewed on
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Infectious Diseases Specialist,  's  Response
Hello,
Welcome to HCM,

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by a group of viruses known as enteroviruses. This is a condition which can lead to fever, blisters on the hands and feet, mouth sores, sore throat, and a poor appetite.

It can spread from one person to another through direct contact with discharge from the nose and throat, saliva, infected stools, or fluid from a blister.

There is no specific treatment for HFMD. Medication may be given for relief of symptoms such as fever and aches.

I would suggest yo to follow
1.Good personal hygiene
2.Oral NSAIDs
3.Topical anesthetics to minimize the pain caused by the blisters.
4.Wash your hands frequently.
Thank you.
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How Long Does Hand Foot And Mouth Disease Remain Contagious?

Hello, Welcome to HCM, Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by a group of viruses known as enteroviruses. This is a condition which can lead to fever, blisters on the hands and feet, mouth sores, sore throat, and a poor appetite. It can spread from one person to another through direct contact with discharge from the nose and throat, saliva, infected stools, or fluid from a blister. There is no specific treatment for HFMD. Medication may be given for relief of symptoms such as fever and aches. I would suggest yo to follow 1.Good personal hygiene 2.Oral NSAIDs 3.Topical anesthetics to minimize the pain caused by the blisters. 4.Wash your hands frequently. Thank you.