Your Child Has Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease. Now what?

Hearing that your child has Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) can be worrying. While this common childhood illness usually passes within a week or so, it can still cause discomfort, disruption to routines, and concern for parents. Knowing what to expect and how to care for your child at home will help make recovery smoother and give you peace of mind.

At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic, located in Bukit Timah, Dr Charmaine Teo and Dr Martha Liu provide parents with clear guidance and gentle reassurance, ensuring children receive the best possible support during their recovery.

Understanding Hand Foot and Mouth Disease , A Common Illness Among Young Children

In Singapore, HFMD is seen all year round, with peaks during certain times of the year, especially in childcare centres, preschools, and schools. It is most common in children under five years old, though older children and even adults can also catch it.

HFMD is caused by a group of viruses called enteroviruses, most often Coxsackievirus A16 and sometimes Enterovirus 71 (EV-A71). While the illness is generally mild, certain strains can cause more severe symptoms, so keeping a close watch on your child’s condition is important. At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic, our doctors work closely with parents to ensure early detection, effective symptom relief, and careful monitoring.

Spotting the Signs. How to Recognise HFMD Early? 

HFMD symptoms usually appear three to six days after being exposed to the virus. Recognising the signs early can help you manage your child’s symptoms effectively and prevent the illness from spreading.

Common early symptoms include:

• Fever and sore throat (exercise drooling)

• Runny nose and reduced appetite

• Irritability or tiredness

  
  

Within a day or two, small red spots and blisters may develop:

• Painful mouth ulcers on the tongue, gums, and inside of the cheeks

• Rashes or blisters on the palms, soles, and sometimes buttocks, knees, or groin

  
  

At our clinic in Bukit Timah, Dr Charmaine Teo and Dr Martha Liu help parents understand what to look out for, ensuring that children with HFMD get the care they need as early as possible.

Caring for Your Child at Home

There is no specific cure for HFMD, but children usually recover within 7–10 days with symptomatic treatment, proper care and rest. Our team at Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic recommends these comfort-focused steps:

• Keep your child hydrated

  Offer cool water, diluted fruit juices, or soups. Smooth, cold treats like yoghurt or ice lollies can ease discomfort from mouth ulcers.

  
  

• Relieve pain and fever

  Age-appropriate paracetamol or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and discomfort. Always follow your doctor’s dosage instructions.

  
  

• Choose soft, gentle food

  Avoid spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods that may irritate mouth sores. Mashed vegetables, porridge, or soft noodles can be easier to eat.

  
  

• Maintain good skin care

  Keep blisters clean and dry. Discourage scratching to prevent infection and discomfort.

  
  

By following these steps, you can help your child stay comfortable while their immune system fights off the virus.

Knowing When to Seek Medical Attention

While HFMD often resolves on its own, some symptoms require prompt medical review. Bring your child to a doctor if you notice:

• High fever that does not respond to medication

• Signs of dehydration, such as dry lips, dark urine, or fewer wet nappies

• Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea

• Unusual drowsiness, confusion, or irritability

• Stiff neck, difficulty breathing, or seizures

  
  

If you are unsure, it is always safer to get your child checked. At our Bukit Timah clinic, Dr Charmaine Teo and Dr Martha Liu can examine your child, give tailored advice, and provide relief for symptoms when needed.

Preventing HFMD from Spreading, Protecting Your Family and Community

HFMD spreads easily through droplets, contact with fluid from blisters, or contaminated surfaces. Good hygiene and early isolation are key to stopping the spread.

• Keep your child at home until all blisters have dried and they are well enough to return to school. Follow your doctor’s medical certificate guidelines.

• Wash hands frequently with soap, especially before meals and after using the toilet.

• Clean and disinfect toys, table surfaces, and doorknobs regularly.

• Remind children not to share utensils, bottles, or towels.

• Teach them to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

  
  

At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic, we believe prevention is just as important as treatment. Dr Charmaine Teo and Dr Martha Liu share these practical tips with families to reduce the risk of HFMD outbreaks.

Helping Your Child Cope Emotionally

Illness can affect more than just a child’s body, it can also impact their emotions and mood. Being home from school, feeling uncomfortable, or missing playtime can be frustrating for little ones.

You can help by:

• Reassuring them that they will feel better soon

• Keeping their environment calm and restful

• Offering quiet activities such as reading, drawing, or gentle play

Our clinic team understands that parental reassurance is one of the most powerful parts of recovery.

The Joyful Seeds Approach

At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic, located in Bukit Timah, we understand that managing HFMD can be stressful for parents and uncomfortable for children. Our role is to provide clear guidance, evidence-based care, and practical advice to help you navigate each stage confidently

Whether it’s recognising symptoms, managing discomfort at home, or knowing when to seek medical review, Dr Charmaine Teo and Dr Martha Liu are here to support your family with accurate information and calm, professional care.

Worried about your child’s symptoms? Book a consultation with our team today. Let’s work together to support your child’s recovery and help them return to their usual routine, safely and comfortably.

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