Hand, Foot, and Mouth (HFM) Disease is a common viral illness that usually affects infants and young children but can affect adults as well. Symptoms of this virus include fever, blister-like sores in the mouth and on the hands and feet, and a skin rash.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for HFM, but your healthcare provider can recommend some medications to ease pain and fever. Complications are rare but do occur and can be serious, so if you think you have Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease or if you are sick, please see your healthcare provider or seek treatment at Student Health Services (513-529-3000).

Prevention

There is no vaccine to protect against this disease but you can and should take steps to lower your risk of becoming infected. These include:

• Washing your hands often and using soap and water. This is extremely important in lowering your risk for Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease and for flu prevention and other common illnesses.
• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and soiled items. Use bleach based disinfectant wipes on doorknobs, desk tops, etc.
• Avoiding close contact such as kissing, hugging, sharing eating utensils or drinking cups with others.

Please do your part in helping to decrease the spread of this virus and in protecting yourself in the process. If you have questions or concerns or seek more information please see the Center for Disease Control's Hand, Foot, and Mouth information or call Student Health Services at 513-529-3000.