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Q.

Can adults get hand, foot, and mouth disease?

Related Topics: Foot, Hand, Mouth
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Answers From Experts & Organizations (1)

Matthew Hoffman, MDMatthew Hoffman, MDSUCCESS!
Matthew Hoffman, MD
Internal Medicine
Emory University
131 Answers
28,523 Helpful Votes
26 Followers
A.

Yes. Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is caused by viruses from a group called enteroviruses. HFMD is common in infants and children, but can also affect adults. Symptoms can include fever, sore throat, and blistering sores in the mouth that become ulcers. A rash may appear on the palms and soles of the hands and feet.

HFMD is spread through virus-contaminated secretions from the nose, throat, saliva, or blister fluid. A person can still transmit the virus to others for weeks after symptoms resolve.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease has nothing to do with foot-and-mouth disease, a disease that affects livestock. Foot-and-mouth (or hoof-and-mouth) is caused by a different virus, and people can’t catch the disease from animals.

This answer should not be considered medical advice...down arrowThis answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.up arrow

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