Question
How long does a fever last with hand, foot, and mouth disease?
Answer
After contracting hand, foot, and mouth disease, children usually have a fever for 2 to 7 days. After a few days of fever, rashes may appear on the hands, feet, mouth, and buttocks. However, a very small number of patients may develop secondary symptoms such as pneumonia, myocarditis, meningitis, or even damage to the heart. Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by a virus infection. Most patients have a fever for 3 to 5 days, although some may not experience fever. The virus primarily targets children under 5 years old, especially infants and toddlers aged 1 to 2. If symptoms improve, it is recommended to visit the hospital again to prevent complications. Generally, after the patient recovers, blisters will scab over within 7 to 10 days without leaving scars.