Introduction

Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common infection thatcauses mouth ulcers andspots on the hands and feet.

It's most common in young children particularly those under10 but can affect older children and adults as well.

Hand, foot and mouth disease can be unpleasant, but it will usually clear up by itself within 7 to 10 days. You can normally look after yourself or your child at home.

The infection is not related to foot and mouth disease, which affects cattle, sheep and pigs.

This page covers:

Symptoms

What to do if you or your child has it

When to get medical advice

How it spreads

Prevention

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 28 Nov 2016