Misconceptions

• Though the names of the diseases are similar, hoof and mouth disease and HFMD are caused by two different viruses.
  
  

Identification

• Children with HFMD begin having flu-like symptoms. After two days, painful sores form in the mouth and on the cheeks and tongue. True to its name, the disease also causes a rash on the feet and hands.
  
  

Cause

• According to the CDC, HFMD is spread via contact with an infected person. People are contagious for the first week of the disease.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• There is no cure for the disease, but it is self-limiting and will resolve on its own. Taking pain medication and drinking lots of fluids can help ease the discomfort.
  
  

Complications

• While rare, severe complications from HFMD include meningitis and encephalitis. Some children will experience loss of fingernails and toenails following the disease.