Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD)

Sheryl Lee BASc, CPHI (C)

HFMD is caused by the Coxsackie virus which is spread from person to person through contact with an infected person’s nose and throat secretions, saliva, fluid from the blisters or stool. The virus can also get on a person’s hands or other objects and then spread into someone’s mouth.  Once transmitted, it takes about three to six days for signs/symptoms to appear; and can remain in a person’s stool for up to 4 weeks after the start of the illness.

What are signs/symptoms?

• A skin rash with/without red spotted small blisters that appear on the hands (palms) and feet (soles), buttocks and sometimes other places on the body.
• Other symptoms/signs include fever, loss of appetite, sore throat, lack of energy, small, painful ulcers in the mouth, vomiting and/or diarrhea.
• The illness usually will go away on their own within 10 days.

How to decrease the spread?

• Enhance regular cleaning schedules. A 1:50 household bleach solution (approximately 1000 ppm) is recommended for use and can be prepared by mixing 100 mL (7 tablespoons) household bleach with 5000 mL (20 cups) water. Bleach should be used after the surface is cleaned with soap and water.

Exclusion guidelines:

• No exclusion is necessary unless child does not feel well.
• Although Hand, Food and Mouth Disease / Coxsackie virus is not reportable to the Medical Officer of Health in Ontario, if 10% or more of children and/or staff are affected, notify the Porcupine Health Unit.