Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common illness in young children — especially in childcare and preschool settings. While it’s usually mild, it spreads quickly and can mean several missed days of school or daycare. Here in Ohio, local health departments regularly see clusters of HFMD, especially during the late summer and fall months.

The good news: parents can take simple, effective steps to help prevent HFMD from spreading at home and in the community.

What Is HFMD?

HFMD is caused by viruses (most often coxsackievirus) and mainly affects children under 5 years old, though anyone can get it. It spreads easily through:

  • Saliva and nasal secretions (coughing, sneezing, drooling)
  • Fluid from blisters or sores
  • Contact with contaminated hands, toys, or surfaces
  • Stool (after diaper changes or toileting)

Symptoms usually appear 3–5 days after exposure and may include:

  • Low-grade fever
  • Sore throat or irritability
  • Painful mouth sores
  • A blister-like rash on hands, feet, or sometimes the buttocks

Most children recover in 7–10 days without complications.

Why It Matters in Ohio

  • HFMD isn’t individually reportable in Ohio, but outbreaks in schools or childcare centers must be reported to local health departments as “Class C outbreaks.”
  • Because it spreads before symptoms appear and even after kids start to feel better, daycares and preschools can experience rapid outbreaks.
  • Ohio schools and childcare facilities often require that children stay home until mouth sores and hand lesions are dry or healing and the child is otherwise well.

What Parents Can Do to Prevent HFMD

Even though HFMD is common, parents play a key role in prevention and protecting their families.

1. Prioritize Handwashing

  • Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds — especially after diaper changes, using the toilet, blowing noses, or before eating.
  • Help young children wash thoroughly, including between fingers and under nails.
  • Use alcohol-based sanitizer only when soap and water aren’t available.

2. Keep Sick Kids Home

  • Children with HFMD should stay home until:
    • Fever is gone for at least 24 hours (without fever-reducing meds)
    • Mouth sores and hand/foot blisters are dry or healing (not actively weeping)
    • They feel well enough to join normal activities

Ohio school policies vary, but many follow these basic guidelines. Check with your child’s school nurse or local health department for specifics.

3. Disinfect Surfaces & Toys

  • Clean frequently touched items like toys, doorknobs, and counters daily.
  • A simple bleach solution (¼ cup bleach per 1 gallon of water) works well for nonporous surfaces.
  • Wash bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water.

In Ohio childcare settings, disinfection is a required infection control step during HFMD outbreaks.

4. Teach Healthy Habits

  • Encourage children to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow.
  • Discourage sharing cups, utensils, and towels.
  • Remind kids to avoid touching their mouths and faces unnecessarily.

5. Communicate with Your Child’s School or Daycare

  • Let staff know promptly if your child is diagnosed with HFMD.
  • Ask about their return-to-school policy so you can plan accordingly.
  • If multiple cases occur in your child’s classroom or center, the facility may notify parents and work with the local health department.

When to Call the Doctor

HFMD usually gets better on its own. But call your child’s healthcare provider if:

  • Your child isn’t drinking enough fluids
  • Symptoms worsen or last more than 10 days
  • Your child has a weakened immune system
  • You notice signs of dehydration (dry mouth, fewer wet diapers, lethargy)
  • You see worsening skin infection around blisters

Key Takeaways for Ohio Parents

  • Handwashing + staying home when sick = the best prevention.
  • Ohio health departments track outbreaks, even though individual cases don’t have to be reported.
  • If your child has HFMD, notify your childcare center or school to help prevent further spread.
  • Local health departments offer guidance and support for schools and parents during outbreaks.

Need Help?

If you have questions about HFMD or suspect an outbreak at your child’s school or daycare, contact your Crawford County Public Health at (419) 562-5871.
If you are not a Crawford County resident, you can find contact information for your county health department at: https://odh.ohio.gov/local-health-districts

Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease is common — but with a little extra care at home, parents can make a big difference in keeping Ohio kids healthy!