Hand, Foot & Mouth
Blisters on a child's hands, feet, and mouth – Care for hand, foot, and mouth disease, and criteria for returning to school. - **Symptoms:** - Blisters on the palms of hands, soles of feet, and inside of the mouth. - Fever, loss of appetite, headache, and fatigue may also occur. - **Care:** - Keep the child hydrated by offering plenty of fluids. - Use soft foods that are easy to swallow. - Avoid acidic or spicy foods that can irritate the blisters. - Wash hands frequently with soap and water. - Disinfect toys and surfaces that the child has touched. - **Return to school criteria:** - Fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication. - Blisters have scabbed over. - No new blisters appearing. - Consult with a doctor before returning to school.
Symptoms and progression.
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral infection in infants and young children, characterized by fever and blisters on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and inside the mouth. It typically occurs in kindergartens and daycare centers during the summer and fall seasons.
- There is no specific cure, and most cases resolve spontaneously within 7 to 10 days.
- The biggest problem is often that children cannot eat due to pain in their mouths. Preventing dehydration by providing cool water, lukewarm porridge, and other soft foods is crucial for care.
Source: 질병관리청 감염병포털 · as of 2026-08-13
In situations like these, go directly to the hospital.
- When there is no urination for more than 8 hours, or when crying does not produce tears (dehydration).
- When a high fever of 39 degrees Celsius or higher persists for more than two days.
- When the child appears listless, vomits frequently, experiences sudden shocks, or seems to have weakness in their limbs (rarely, but may indicate complications such as meningitis).
Source: 질병관리청 감염병포털 · as of 2026-08-13
Infection and attending school.
It can be transmitted through pus, blisters, stool, and vomit. It is recommended to stay home from school until the fever subsides and the blisters in the mouth heal. Adults can also rarely contract the disease, so it is important to wash your hands thoroughly after changing diapers. Even after recovery, the virus can be present in stool for several weeks, making handwashing crucial.
Source: 질병관리청 감염병포털 · as of 2026-08-13
Frequently asked questions
Can you get hand, foot, and mouth disease twice?
Yes, because there are several types of causative viruses, it is possible to get infected with a different type again.
Should I pop the blister?
No. If you pop it, the risk of infection will only increase. Let it dry naturally, and if it itches, use the ointment prescribed by your doctor.
Sources for this page
· 질병관리청 감염병포털 (as of 2026-08-13)Last checked: 2026년 8월 13일
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