Question
When can a child return to school after recovering from hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Answer
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a viral infection. If the child’s symptoms are mild, they can be isolated at home and observed for about a week. After taking medication and the blisters have healed and the child is in good spirits, once the rash has cleared and body temperature is normal, isolation can be lifted and they can return to school. Remember to ensure the child drinks plenty of water and you can give them ribavirin granules orally.