It is caused by a group of viruses known as the Coxsackie viruses. Infants and young children, age 2 weeks to 3 years, are most commonly affected. The blisters break in 1-2 days and leave sores or ulcers in the mouth and throat.
Blisters also develop on the palms and soles and between the fingers and toes.
One-fourth of those affected will develop a rash on the buttocks. A headache, loss of appetite, and occasional abdominal pain may occur. Transmission Hand, foot and mouth is usually transmitted in mucus droplets produced by a cough or a sneeze. Exposure also occurs through contact with contaminated feces from infected persons. It is contagious during the active stage of the disease and may be found in the stool for several weeks.