Can Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) last up to two months?

From the Guidelines

Hand, foot, and mouth disease typically lasts about 7-10 days, not two months. The illness is characterized by fever, sores in the mouth, and a rash on the hands and feet. Most people recover completely within this timeframe without specific treatment. The provided evidence 1 discusses diabetic foot infections, which is a different condition from hand, foot, and mouth disease. However, it's worth noting that the evidence does not support the idea that hand, foot, and mouth disease can last two months. Some key points to consider include:

• The virus responsible for hand, foot, and mouth disease (usually Coxsackievirus A16 or Enterovirus 71) remains in the body for several weeks after symptoms resolve, and a person can still spread the infection during this period.
• In rare cases, some individuals may experience prolonged symptoms or complications, but these are exceptions rather than the rule.
• Treatment focuses on managing symptoms with over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (following appropriate dosing guidelines), maintaining hydration, and using mouth-numbing products for comfort.
• The disease is most contagious during the first week but practicing good hygiene, including handwashing and avoiding close contact, helps prevent transmission.
• If symptoms persist beyond two weeks, medical evaluation is recommended.

From the Research

Duration of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

• The duration of hand, foot, and mouth disease is typically short, with most cases resolving in 7 to 10 days without sequelae 2, 3.
• Symptoms usually last less than 1 week 4.
• There is no evidence to suggest that hand, foot, and mouth disease can last two months.
• The disease is usually benign and self-limited, with treatment mainly symptomatic and supportive 2, 3.

Severity and Complications

• While most cases are mild, hand, foot, and mouth disease can cause severe complications, such as circulatory failure and neurogenic pulmonary edema, especially in cases caused by enterovirus A71 2.
• However, these severe cases are rare, and the disease is usually not life-threatening.

Prevention and Management

• Prevention measures include vaccination of susceptible individuals in high-risk areas, good personal hygiene, and avoiding contact with affected individuals 2, 3.
• Treatment is mainly focused on relieving symptoms, such as pain and fever, with acetaminophen or ibuprofen 3.