Happy May from the DSH Team!

HFMD Symptoms

Most children have mild symptoms for 7 to 10 days. Symptoms may include:

• Fever

• Sore throat

• Lack of appetite

• Painful mouth sores that blister

• Rash commonly found on the hands and feet

HFMD Transmission

HFMD can spread through contact with:

• Droplets with virus particles made after person sneezes, coughs, or talks

• Objects and surfaces that have virus particles

• Fluid from blisters

• Feces

When to Return to School with HFMD

Because HFMD is normally mild, children can continue to go to childcare and school as long as they:

• Have no fever.

• Feel well enough to participate in class.

• Have no uncontrolled drooling with mouth sores.

HFMD Prevention in Schools

HFMD is very contagious. To help prevent spreading HFMD:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after changing diapers, using the toilet, and coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.

• Help children wash their hands.

• Keep blisters clean.

• Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and shared items, including toys and doorknobs.

• Avoid close contact with an infected person, such as hugging or kissing them.

HFMD Resources

The DSH Team recently published a short, informational video on Hand, foot, and mouth disease. You can view it below.

• NJDOH HFMD Exposure Notice - English/Spanish

• NJDOH HFMD FAQ Document [English] [Spanish]

• CDC HFMD Page

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Please remember to visit the NJDOH School Health webpage frequently for updated guidance and educational materials.