How long does it take for hand and foot? Understanding the Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Timeline

Most cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease resolve on their own in 7 to 10 days. This common viral illness, caused by coxsackievirus, can be uncomfortable but is typically mild. Understanding the timeline helps answer the question, how long does it take for hand and foot symptoms to clear up.

Quick Summary

Hand, foot, and mouth disease typically lasts about a week to a week and a half, with symptoms appearing in stages after an incubation period of a few days. Initial fever and discomfort fade, followed by the appearance of mouth sores and a characteristic rash on the hands and feet that eventually heals on its own.

Key Points

• Typical Duration: Most cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease last 7 to 10 days, with a predictable sequence of symptoms [1].

• Incubation Period: The illness begins with a 3 to 6-day incubation period, during which the infected person is contagious but asymptomatic [1].

• Fever First: The first sign is typically a fever, followed by a sore throat, lasting 1 to 3 days [1].

• Mouth Sores Follow: Painful ulcers usually appear in the mouth shortly after the fever begins and can last a week or more [1].

• Rash on Hands and Feet: The signature rash of red spots and blisters follows the fever and generally fades within 5 to 7 days [1].

• Contagious Period: The highest period of contagion is the first week, but the virus can shed in stool for weeks afterward [1].

• Symptom Management: Treatment focuses on keeping the patient hydrated and comfortable with over-the-counter pain relievers and soft, bland foods [1].

The Typical Timeline of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a contagious viral illness most often caused by coxsackievirus A16, primarily affecting infants and young children [1]. The entire process, from initial exposure to full recovery, generally takes about 7 to 10 days [1].

Incubation Period: The First Silent Stage

Following exposure, there's an incubation period before symptoms appear.

• Typical Duration: 3 to 6 days [1].
• What to Know: The individual is contagious during this time even without symptoms [1].

Stage 1: Initial Symptoms

The illness often starts abruptly with flu-like symptoms [1].

• Typical Duration: 1 to 2 days [1].
• Key Symptoms: Low-grade fever, poor appetite, malaise, and sore throat [1].

Stage 2: Mouth Sores and Ulcers

Painful mouth sores can develop a day or two after the fever starts [1].

• Typical Duration: 7 to 10 days for full resolution [1].
• Key Symptoms: Red spots turn into painful ulcers on the tongue, gums, and inner cheeks [1].

Stage 3: The Characteristic Rash

The visible red, spotty rash appears as the fever subsides [1].

• Typical Duration: 5 to 7 days [1].
• Key Symptoms: Red spots or small blisters on the palms and soles, sometimes elsewhere, typically dry up without scarring [1].

Managing Discomfort During Recovery

There is no specific cure for HFMD, so home care focuses on symptom management [1].

• Hydration is key: Encourage fluids, especially cold beverages, and avoid acidic drinks [1].
• Pain and fever relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help (consult a healthcare provider for dosing) [1].
• Soothing oral rinses: Warm salt water or numbing sprays may offer temporary relief for mouth pain in older individuals [1].
• Dietary adjustments: Offer soft, bland foods that are easy to swallow [1].

Comparison: Common Symptoms and Their Duration

Here is a comparison of common symptoms and their typical duration [1].

Symptom	Typical Onset	Approximate Duration
Fever	1-2 days after infection	1-3 days
Sore Throat	1-2 days after infection	3-5 days
Mouth Sores	1-2 days after fever begins	7-10 days
Skin Rash	1-2 days after fever begins	5-7 days
Fatigue/Malaise	1-2 days after infection	3-5 days

How Long is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Contagious?

A person is most contagious in the first week, but the virus can shed for longer [1].

• Virus can remain in saliva and nasal mucus for 1 to 3 weeks [1].
• It can be shed in stool for several weeks or months [1].

Good hygiene is essential to prevent spread [1].

When Should You See a Doctor?

While most HFMD cases are mild, seek medical advice if [1]:

• Symptoms don't improve after 10 days.
• Fever is high (over 102°F or 39°C) or lasts over three days.
• There are signs of dehydration.
• A very young child refuses to drink.
• The child is unusually tired, irritable, or in significant pain.
• Rare complications occur.

Preventing the Spread

Prevention is crucial due to the virus's contagiousness [1].

• Practice good hand hygiene: Wash hands frequently and thoroughly [1].
• Disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean frequently touched items and areas [1].
• Avoid close contact: Do not share personal items with someone who is sick [1].
• Exclude from group settings: Keep sick children home as advised by a healthcare provider [1].

Conclusion

Hand, foot, and mouth disease has a generally predictable timeline, with most symptoms resolving within 7 to 10 days [1]. Proper care, hydration, pain management, and good hygiene are key for recovery and preventing spread [1]. For reliable health information, consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at https://www.cdc.gov/ [1].

Frequently Asked Questions

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

A person is most contagious during the first week, but the virus can remain in respiratory secretions for weeks and stool for months, so good hygiene is important long after symptoms disappear [1].

Can adults get hand, foot, and mouth disease?

Yes, adults can get HFMD, though it's less common and symptoms are often similar, potentially more severe, or even absent while still being contagious [1].

How long do the mouth sores last with hand, foot, and mouth?

Mouth sores typically last for 7 to 10 days and can make eating and drinking difficult; staying hydrated with cold fluids is important [1].

What's the difference between hand, foot, and mouth disease and foot-and-mouth disease?

Hand, foot, and mouth disease affects humans (coxsackievirus), while foot-and-mouth disease affects livestock (a different virus); they are unrelated and not transferable between humans and animals [1].

When should my child return to daycare after hand, foot, and mouth disease?

Typically, a child can return once fever-free for 24 hours without medication and when sores/rash are healing, but check with your daycare's policy [1].

How do you treat the rash from hand, foot, and mouth disease?

There's no specific rash treatment; blisters heal on their own [1]. Keep the area clean and avoid scratching; a healthcare provider might suggest a topical ointment for itchiness [1].

Is it possible to get hand, foot, and mouth disease more than once?

Yes, as it can be caused by different enteroviruses; infection with one type provides immunity only to that specific strain [1].