It’s that time of year again – schools are buzzing, playgrounds are full and tiny hands are everywhere. Along with the laughter and energy, there’s an unwelcome seasonal visitor that parents and caregivers need to watch out for – hand, foot and mouth disease.

“Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common viral infection that primarily affects young children, although anyone can catch it,” Dr. Vinitha Moopen, pediatrician at WellSpan Family & Pediatric Medicine in Rothsville said. “It spreads easily through close contact, contaminated surfaces or even when an infected person coughs or sneezes.”

The signs are small red spots or blisters on the hands, feet or outside and inside of the mouth, often accompanied by fever, sore throat and fatigue.

While hand, foot and mouth is usually mild, it can be uncomfortable for children and occasionally lead to more serious complications. It can also be very contagious. So, we asked Dr. Vinitha Moopen how families can protect their children. This is what she recommends for prevention:

1. Wash hands frequently. Practice good hand hygiene with warm water and soap. Make sure children wash their hands after using the bathroom, before eating and after playing.
2. Disinfect surfaces. Toys, doorknobs and shared items can hold the virus. Wipe them down regularly.
3. Avoid close contact. Keep children home if they are sick and try to limit sharing of utensils, cups and towels.
4. Cover coughs and sneezes. Teach children to use a tissue or their elbow to stop germs from spreading.
5. Stay informed. Check local health updates, as outbreaks can occur in schools and daycare centers.

Parents and caregivers can help their children feel better by keeping them hydrated, offering soft foods and using over-the-counter remedies to ease discomfort. Most children recover within a week to 10 days, but good hygiene practices can prevent the virus from spreading further.

If you notice dehydration, a fever lasting more than three days, severe mouth pain or worsening symptoms, call your primary care provider or find an in-person or virtual care provider nearest you at www.WellSpan.org/GetCareNow.

WellSpan’s commitment to children’s health and wellbeing extends beyond offering high quality clinical care. Through the Spotlight on Children’s Health initiative, WellSpan team members and community organizations partner to strengthen early childhood education and resources to help children thrive from birth through adolescence.

To learn more about the Spotlight on Children’s Health initiative, visit www.wellspan.org.