preventing the spread of hand, foot and mouth disease

Last edited 05/2022 and last reviewed 05/2022

Infected children should be kept away from school while they are unwell.

• he/she should not be kept away from school till the last blister disappears, providing the child is well (1). The risk of disease transmission can be reduced by advising on personal hygiene precautions
• avoiding direct contact with an infected person e.g. - kissing, hugging, sharing cups and eating utensils (2)
• when coughing or sneezing, mouth and nose should be covered and wiped with a disposable tissue and then washing hands properly (3)
• wash hands with soap and water after using the toilet, after nappy change and especially before eating (4)
• objects contaminated with respiratory secretions and faeces (e.g. - hankerchiefs, tissues, nappies etc) should be disposed safely
• soiled clothes, bedding and towels should be washed thoroughly (on the "hot cycle" of the washing machine) (5)

Reference:

• 1. Health Protection Agency. Essex Health Protection Unit 2009. Factsheet on hand, foot and mouth disease
• 2. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 2008. National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases - Division of Viral Diseases. Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD)
• 3. New South Wales Public Health. FactSheet: hand, foot and mouth disease. New South Wales Public Health Bulletin 2003;14(4-5), 95
• 4. The National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC). Hand, foot and mouth disease (accessed 24 May 2022).
• 5. Health Protection Agency 2005. HPA North West. Hand, foot & mouth disease.