Hand, foot, and mouth disease is spreading widely in Kitsap

tadsooter
1 day ago
2 min read

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is spreading widely in Kitsap County this season.

Schools, childcare centers, and sports clubs throughout Kitsap County have reported clusters of HFMD cases to Kitsap Public Health in recent weeks.

While illness from HFMD is typically mild, the disease spreads very easily between children. We encourage families and organizations to take steps to prevent HFMD.

What is HFMD?

Hand, foot and mouth disease (not to be confused with foot-and-mouth disease, which is found in livestock) is a common childhood infection caused by viruses.

Symptoms include:

Fever
Mouth sores/pain when swallowing
A rash that turns into blisters (especially common on hands and feet)

HFMD symptoms usually go away in a week to 10 days and can be managed at home. Reach out to your healthcare provider if you have questions about symptoms, diagnosis, or treatment.

HFMD Fact Sheet | English

HFMD Fact Sheet | Español

When to keep kids home

Children who have HFMD or have been exposed to HFMD can attend childcare or school unless:

They have mouth sores with drooling
They have a fever (100.4°F or higher) and other HFMD symptoms
They have oozing, fluid-filled blisters that can’t stay covered with clothes or bandages
They are not well enough to participate in classroom activities

Check your childcare program’s sickness policy for more guidance.

Preventing HFMD

Take everyday steps to help prevent getting or spreading HFMD:

Wash hands with soap and water often, especially after changing diapers, using the toilet, sneezing, coughing, or wiping noses
Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
Clean toys and other objects children put into their mouths with soap and water
Clean and disinfect all household surfaces

Schools and childcare organizations should follow the Washington State Department of Health’s Infectious Disease Control Guide.