How long does hand, foot, and mouth disease stay contagious?

Individuals with HFMD can be contagious during the incubation period (about three to six days) before symptoms develop and may remain contagious for days or weeks after the symptoms and signs abate. Even people with mild or no symptoms and signs during infection can be contagious.

How contagious is hand foot and mouth for adults?

No. Because the disease is contagious, you should stay home to prevent the spread to others, especially within the first few days. When you’re diagnosed with hand, foot and mouth disease, it’s important to take universal precautions: Wash your hands before you eat.

How does hand foot and mouth get passed on?

Hand, foot and mouth disease is easily passed on to other people. It’s spread in coughs, sneezes, poo and the fluid in the blisters. You can start spreading it from a few days before you have any symptoms, but you’re most likely to spread it to others in the first 5 days after symptoms start.

How contagious is hand, foot, and mouth disease treatments?

Because hand-foot-and-mouth disease is highly contagious, people with the illness should limit their exposure to others while they have active signs and symptoms. Keep children with hand-foot-and-mouth disease out of child care or school until fever is gone and mouth sores have healed.

Can I go to work if my child has hand foot and mouth?

Stay off work, school or nursery until you or your child are feeling better – there’s usually no need to wait until the last blister has healed, provided you’re otherwise well. Use tissues to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze and put used tissues in a bin as soon as possible.

Should I stay off work if my child has hand foot and mouth?

It’s not always possible to avoid getting hand, foot and mouth disease, but following the advice below can help stop the infection spreading. Stay off work, school or nursery until you or your child are feeling better – there’s usually no need to wait until the last blister has healed, provided you’re otherwise well.

Should I go to work if my child has hand, foot, and mouth disease?

If you or your child experience symptoms such as a fever or sore throat, stay home from school or work. It’s best to avoid contact with others once the blisters and rashes develop. This can help you avoid spreading the disease to others.